India, March 29 -- It is completely understandable to feel concerned when you notice a yellowish tinge on your baby's skin or yellow colouration of the white of the eyes, especially during the early days of parenthood. Jaundice refers to the yellowing of the skin and the white of the eyes. It is caused by a higher-than-normal level of bilirubin in the blood, a yellow pigment produced naturally when red blood cells break down. In newborns, this process is more active, and their immature liver may take a little time to efficiently clear bilirubin from the body. Many newborns develop what is known as physiological jaundice in the first few days of life. This is a common, mild, and temporary condition that usually resolves on its own as feeding becomes established and the baby's liver matures. As babies feed better, bilirubin is passed out through stools, with the yellow colour gradually fading. However, in some cases, jaundice may be pathological. This is suspected when the yellow discolouration appears within the first 24 hours of life, rises rapidly, or persists longer than expected. Such situations need closer medical evaluation to rule out underlying causes and to prevent complications. Jaundice in newborns is extremely common. Studies suggest that up to 85% of newborns develop some degree of jaundice after birth. A very small proportion of babies may develop severe jaundice, where bilirubin levels rise to potentially dangerous levels. In South-East Asia, including India, about two to three out of every 100 newborns may develop significant jaundice. This higher burden is often related to delayed recognition, limited access to testing, and lack of timely treatment [1]. Physiological jaundice typically appears after the first 24 hours of life, peaks between the third and fifth day, and gradually resolves within one to two weeks in full-term babies. Some breastfed babies may remain mildly jaundiced for a longer duration while continuing to feed well and gain weight. This can still be normal, provided the baby is otherwise thriving and bilirubin levels remain within safe limits. Confirming the diagnosis is simple. Bilirubin levels can be measured either through a small blood sample or by using a non-invasive device placed gently on the baby's skin. These levels are always interpreted according to the baby's exact age in hours, as what is considered safe changes rapidly in the newborn period. Management depends on how high the bilirubin level is and the baby's age. Most newborns require only frequent and effective feeding, which helps the body eliminate bilirubin naturally. If bilirubin levels rise beyond recommended thresholds, phototherapy is started. This involves exposing the baby to a special blue light that safely converts bilirubin into a form that can be more easily removed from the body. Exchange transfusion is rarely needed, reserved for severe cases. In the vast majority of healthy newborns, jaundice is a normal and short-lived phenomenon that resolves with proper feeding and timely medical guidance, if needed. It reflects the baby's natural adjustment after birth. Most babies recover completely, and jaundice leaves no lasting effects. [1] Slusher TM, Zamora TG, Appiah D, et al. Burden of severe neonatal jaundice: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Paediatrics Open. 2017 Dr Anupam Sibal is a leading paediatric gastroenterologist and hepatologist with over three decades of experience and five books to his credit, including national bestseller Is Your Child Ready to Face the World?...