Paediatrics in Lagos
Newborn Jaundice (Neonatal Jaundice)
The signs, what causes it, and treatment in Lagos from ₦50,000, with the full price shown before you book or pay.
Signs to look for
Newborn Jaundice (Neonatal Jaundice)
- Yellow skin, often starting on the face and spreading down the body
- Yellow whites of the eyes
- Dark yellow urine, or pale stools
- Sleepiness and reluctance to feed
- In severe jaundice, floppiness, arching of the back or a high-pitched cry
Published Mezo prices. Each links to what the price covers.
Jaundice is a yellow colour of the skin and the whites of the eyes, caused by a substance called bilirubin building up in the blood. Many newborns become a little yellow in the first week as the liver matures, and most need no treatment. Some babies, especially those born early, those whose blood group differs from the mother's, and those with G6PD deficiency, which is common in Nigeria, can develop levels high enough to harm the brain. A blood test, not the colour of the skin, decides whether treatment is needed.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Yellow skin, often starting on the face and spreading down the body
- Yellow whites of the eyes
- Dark yellow urine, or pale stools
- Sleepiness and reluctance to feed
- In severe jaundice, floppiness, arching of the back or a high-pitched cry
When to See a Doctor
Have any baby who looks yellow checked by a doctor with a blood test the same day if the jaundice started in the first 24 hours, if the baby was born early, or if it is spreading to the legs and feet. Go to the nearest hospital with a neonatal unit immediately if a yellow baby is very sleepy, will not feed, is floppy, arches the back or has a high-pitched cry. See a doctor if jaundice lasts more than two weeks in a baby born at term.
Treatment options
- Frequent feeding, which helps the body clear bilirubin
- Phototherapy, a blue light treatment given in hospital
- Exchange blood transfusion for very high or rapidly rising levels
- Tests for the cause, such as blood group and G6PD
- Follow-up blood tests after going home where advised
What it costs on Mezo
Starting cash prices for the treatments used for this condition.
Common Questions
Will sunlight treat my baby's jaundice?
No. Sunlight is not a reliable treatment and can overheat or burn a newborn. If your baby looks yellow, get a blood test.
Should I stop breastfeeding?
Usually not. Feeding often helps clear jaundice. A doctor will tell you if anything about feeding needs to change.
Why does G6PD matter?
Babies with G6PD deficiency can develop severe jaundice quickly, sometimes after exposure to camphor, naphthalene or certain medicines. Avoid these around newborns, and tell the doctor if G6PD deficiency runs in the family.
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Paediatrics in Lagos →Paediatrics in Abuja →Paediatrics in Port Harcourt →Paediatrics in Jos →Paediatrics in Ibadan →Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.