Signs & Symptoms

Signs & Symptoms
– Yellow discolouration
– Usually develops on day 2
– Resolves within 2 weeks
– Maternal age >25
– Asian/European descent
– Siblings requiring phototherapy
– Dehydration – Breastfeeding
– Decreases by day 10
-Breastfeeding jaundice can persist up to 12 weeks

Complications:
Acute encephalopathy:
– Lethargy – Irritability
– Poor sucking
– Abnormal muscle tone/posture
– Seizures
– Coma
– Death potential

Chronic complications:
– Kernicterus (yellow brain staining)
– Cerebral palsy – Developmental delay
– Vision/hearing changes
– Learning difficulties