Yellow Eyes (Jaundice) in Babies
Content reviewed against published AAP, CDC, Mayo Clinic guidelines
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Yellowing of the whites of the eyes (scleral icterus) in babies indicates elevated bilirubin levels (jaundice). Physiological jaundice is extremely common in newborns, affecting about 60% of full-term and 80% of premature babies. It typically peaks between days 3-5 of life and resolves within 1-2 weeks. However, jaundice persisting beyond 2 weeks or appearing after 2 weeks of age may indicate a more serious condition.
Key takeaways
- Yellowing of the whites of the eyes (scleral icterus) in babies indicates elevated bilirubin levels (jaundice).
- Most common cause: Physiological newborn jaundice (immature liver)
- Emergency: Jaundice appearing in the first 24 hours of life
- Home care: Feed baby frequently (8-12 times per day for breastfed infants) to help excrete bilirubin
Possible Causes
When to Seek Help
Emergency — Call 911 or go to ER:
- Jaundice appearing in the first 24 hours of life
- Very deep yellow or orange color with lethargy and poor feeding
- High-pitched crying, arching of back, or seizures with jaundice (possible kernicterus)
- Fever with jaundice in a newborn
Urgent — See doctor today:
- Jaundice spreading to legs and feet rapidly
- Jaundice with pale/white stools and dark urine (possible biliary atresia)
- Jaundiced baby who is difficult to wake for feeds
- Jaundice worsening after initially improving
- New jaundice appearing after 2 weeks of age
Same-day appointment:
- Jaundice persisting beyond 2 weeks in formula-fed baby
- Moderate jaundice in a breastfed baby under 2 weeks with good feeding
- Mild jaundice with parental concern about color progression
Monitor at home:
- Mild physiological jaundice at days 3-5 with good feeding and wet diapers
- Known breast milk jaundice with confirmed normal stool color and weight gain
- Jaundice improving day by day with adequate intake
By Age
0-2 weeks
Normal: Physiological jaundice peaks at days 3-5 and typically resolves by 2 weeks. Mild yellowing of skin and eyes is extremely common. Progresses head to toe as bilirubin rises.
Worry if: Jaundice appearing in first 24 hours of life, rapidly deepening yellow color, yellow extending to legs and feet, poor feeding or lethargy, high-pitched cry, or dark urine and pale stools.
2-8 weeks
Normal: Breast milk jaundice can persist up to 12 weeks in breastfed infants while baby feeds well and gains weight normally.
Worry if: Pale or white stools (acholic stools suggesting biliary atresia), dark tea-colored urine, poor weight gain, progressive yellowing, or jaundice appearing for the first time after 2 weeks.
2+ months
Normal: Jaundice should have resolved by this age in the vast majority of babies.
Worry if: Any yellow discoloration of eyes or skin at this age is abnormal and requires prompt medical evaluation. Could indicate liver disease, biliary atresia, or other serious conditions.
Home Care
- Feed baby frequently (8-12 times per day for breastfed infants) to help excrete bilirubin
- Do not supplement with water or sugar water—breast milk or formula only
- Expose baby to indirect sunlight near a window for short periods (not direct sunlight)
- Monitor stool color daily—normal is yellow/green/brown; pale or white stools need immediate evaluation
- Monitor urine output—at least 6 wet diapers per day indicates adequate hydration
- Check skin color by pressing gently on the forehead or chest and observing the color underneath
- Keep follow-up appointments for bilirubin checks as recommended by your pediatrician
- Do NOT stop breastfeeding unless specifically advised by your doctor
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Sources
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources
Related Symptoms
Bottom line
Most cases of yellow eyes (jaundice) in babies are not emergencies. However, seek immediate care if jaundice appearing in the first 24 hours of life.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.