Jaundice is a yellow color that can be seen in the skin, mucous membranes, or eyes. When red blood cells break down, bilirubin is released into the bloodstream. Jaundice is caused by a build-up of bilirubin in the blood. The liver changes bilirubin so that it can leave the body. Jaundice is very common in newborn babies. It is usually easy to spot because the baby's skin and whites of the eyes turn a yellow color. Babies become jaundiced when they have too much bilirubin in their blood. Jaundice usually is not a problem. But in rare cases, too much bilirubin in the blood can cause brain damage. This can lead to hearing loss, mental retardation, and behavior problems.
