What is jaundice in children?
A child with jaundice has yellow skin or eyes, caused by an abnormally elevated bilirubin level in the body. Bilirubin is produced from the breakdown of hemoglobin, which is the molecule that carries oxygen inside red blood cells. Usually, the liver processes the bilirubin and it is removed from the body in the stool. In children, jaundice is caused by an increased breakdown of red blood cells, poor processing of bilirubin by the liver, or blockage of the flow of bilirubin into the intestine. More than half of newborns have mild jaundice in the first week after birth, caused by increased breakdown of red blood cells.

What are the symptoms of jaundice in children?
Symptoms of jaundice in children include yellow skin and yellow eyes, brown urine, and itching. Less common symptoms of jaundice in children include right-upper abdominal pain, clay-colored stools, nausea, vomiting, weakness, confusion, and lethargy.

How does the doctor treat jaundice in children?
The treatment for jaundice in children depends on the underlying cause. Treatment for jaundice may include a liver disease diet, antihistamines, vitamin B supplements, medications, and surgery.