Why Do Newborn Babies Get Jaundice?

Jaundice is a common condition in newborns, characterized by yellowish skin and eyes due to excess bilirubin in the blood. It often resolves as the baby's liver matures. The term 'jaundice' originates from the French word for yellow. Myths suggested staring at a yellow bird could cure it, which is false. Bilirubin, a waste product from red blood cells, is usually processed by the liver. In newborns, the liver is underdeveloped, leading to jaundice. Various forms exist, including normal jaundice, jaundice of prematurity, breastfeeding jaundice, and blood group incompatibility. Most cases resolve naturally, but severe cases may require treatments like phototherapy or blood transfusions.

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