Symptom 7: Jaundice – The Yellow Warning Sign
Another surprising symptom of neonatal meningitis is jaundice. Most people associate this condition with liver problems, but it can also be a warning sign of an infection like meningitis. Jaundice paints the baby in a wash of yellow, a visual clue hinting at an underlying issue.
Jaundice is a condition that causes yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. It occurs when there’s too much bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. Usually, the liver filters out bilirubin. But when the liver is overwhelmed, bilirubin builds up, leading to jaundice.
The connection between neonatal meningitis and jaundice lies in the infection’s impact on the body. The infection can disrupt normal bodily functions, including the processing of bilirubin. This disruption can cause jaundice, thereby making it a possible symptom of neonatal meningitis.
Jaundice in a newborn isn’t always a cause for panic. It’s a common condition in newborns, with different causes and levels of severity. However, when jaundice is accompanied by other symptoms of meningitis, it takes on a new significance.
Spotting jaundice requires careful observation. If the baby’s skin or the whites of their eyes have a yellowish tint, it could be jaundice. Remember, it’s not just a yellow warning sign. It could be a beacon indicating a severe infection like neonatal meningitis. (7)
