Jaundice is one of the most commonly misunderstood conditions, especially when it comes to newborns and children. For many parents in Hisar and across India, the sight of their baby developing a yellowish tint to the skin and eyes can be alarming. But often, the anxiety stems not from the condition itself, but from misinformation and myths surrounding it.
At Sarvesh Health City, the Best Pediatric Hospital in Hisar, we believe that knowledge empowers parents to make better decisions for their children’s health. This article will debunk the most common myths about jaundice management and provide clear, evidence-based guidance for families.
What is Jaundice? A Quick Overview
Jaundice is a condition that occurs when there is too much bilirubin (a yellow pigment) in the blood. In newborns, this happens because their liver is still maturing and might not process bilirubin efficiently.
While jaundice is common and usually harmless in newborns, it can also occur in older children and adults due to liver issues, infections, or blood disorders.
Myth 1: Jaundice is Always a Serious Condition
Fact: In newborns, jaundice is often physiological—a natural process that resolves on its own within the first two weeks of life. Not all cases of jaundice indicate liver disease or a serious health issue.
However, prolonged or high levels of bilirubin can be dangerous and require prompt medical attention. That’s why early diagnosis and monitoring are essential.
Myth 2: Sunlight is Enough to Treat Jaundice
Fact: While mild exposure to sunlight has been suggested as a traditional remedy, it is not a reliable or recommended treatment for newborn jaundice.
Modern medicine uses phototherapy, a specific type of light treatment that helps break down bilirubin in the skin. The controlled and medically supervised environment of phototherapy is far more effective and safe compared to exposing a baby to direct sunlight, which carries risks like dehydration and sunburn.
Myth 3: Breastfeeding Should Be Stopped During Jaundice
Fact: This is a dangerous myth. Breastfeeding should not be stopped unless advised by a pediatrician for a specific medical reason.
In fact, frequent breastfeeding helps flush out bilirubin through stool and urine. Babies with jaundice need more fluids, and breast milk is the best source. At Sarvesh Health City, we educate mothers on proper breastfeeding techniques to support their baby’s recovery.
Myth 4: Jaundice is Always Visible
Fact: Not necessarily. Mild jaundice may not be easily visible to the naked eye, especially in babies with darker skin tones. That’s why pediatricians use bilirubin tests to measure levels accurately.
Assuming a baby is fine because there’s no visible yellowing can delay treatment. Regular newborn check-ups at the Best Pediatric Hospital in Hisar can help detect such hidden issues early.
Myth 5: Home Remedies Can Cure Jaundice
Fact: There is no scientific proof that traditional home remedies like sugar water, herbal drops, or certain oils can cure jaundice.
In some cases, these remedies can even be harmful. It's always best to consult a qualified pediatrician for jaundice management. At Sarvesh Health City, we provide safe, child-friendly treatments tailored to the individual needs of each baby.
Myth 6: Only Newborns Get Jaundice
Fact: While newborn jaundice is more common, older children can also develop jaundice due to hepatitis, gallstones, infections, or blood disorders.
Ignoring symptoms like yellowing of the eyes or skin, dark urine, or pale stools in older children can be risky. The expert pediatric team at Sarvesh Health City can diagnose and treat all forms of pediatric jaundice efficiently.
Myth 7: Jaundice is Contagious
Fact: Jaundice is not a disease itself—it’s a symptom of an underlying condition. In most cases, it’s not contagious.
However, if jaundice is caused by an infectious condition like hepatitis A or B, the underlying virus can be transmitted. That’s why accurate diagnosis is key to understanding the cause and taking appropriate precautions.
Myth 8: Babies with Jaundice Need IV Fluids Immediately
Fact: Not all babies with jaundice need intravenous (IV) fluids. Hydration is crucial, but in most cases, frequent breastfeeding or formula feeding is sufficient.
IV fluids are only used in severe cases where the baby cannot feed adequately or bilirubin levels are dangerously high. Trust the pediatricians at Sarvesh Health City to make evidence-based decisions for your child’s care.
Myth 9: Jaundice Affects Intelligence
Fact: Mild to moderate jaundice does not affect a child’s brain or intelligence. However, very high bilirubin levels, if left untreated, can cause kernicterus, a rare but serious condition that may lead to brain damage.
This is why timely intervention is crucial. At Sarvesh Health City, we use non-invasive bilirubin monitoring and ensure that every case of jaundice is closely supervised.
Myth 10: Once Treated, Jaundice Never Comes Back
Fact: Jaundice can return, especially if the underlying cause persists or if the baby has certain medical conditions.
For instance, breast milk jaundice can linger for weeks, but it’s usually harmless. In other cases, recurring jaundice may indicate liver disease or hemolytic anemia, which require thorough evaluation and follow-up care.
How Sarvesh Health City Leads in Jaundice Management in Hisar
As the Best Pediatric Hospital in Hisar, Sarvesh Health City is equipped with:
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Advanced diagnostic tools like bilirubin meters and liver function tests
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24x7 neonatal intensive care units (NICUs)
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Experienced pediatricians and neonatologists
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Phototherapy and exchange transfusion facilities
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Lactation consultants and mother-care support programs
Our patient-first approach means we focus on educating families, avoiding unnecessary panic, and offering evidence-based care.
When Should You Be Concerned About Jaundice?
Seek immediate medical care if:
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Your baby is less than 24 hours old and shows signs of jaundice
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The yellowing is spreading rapidly or deepening in color
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The baby is not feeding well, is lethargic, or has high-pitched crying
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Dark-colored urine or pale-colored stools are observed
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Jaundice persists beyond two weeks
At Sarvesh Health City, we encourage parents to never ignore their instincts. If you’re worried, it’s better to get it checked out by our team of expert pediatricians.
Conclusion: Knowledge is the Best Medicine
Jaundice is a condition that can cause confusion, especially with so many myths circulating online and in communities. By understanding the facts and relying on qualified pediatric care, parents can confidently navigate their child’s health journey.
Sarvesh Health City continues to lead the way in pediatric excellence in Hisar, offering not just treatment but compassionate guidance and clarity in every step of your child’s care. Don't let myths mislead you—trust the experts, trust the science, and most importantly, trust your instincts as a parent.
If you’re looking for the most reliable jaundice management for your child, visit Sarvesh Health City – the Best Pediatric Hospital in Hisar.
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