Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Get emergency help if a jaundiced baby is difficult to wake, feeds poorly, has a high-pitched cry, becomes unusually floppy or stiff, arches their body, or has a seizure.
Adults and older children need emergency help for jaundice with confusion, extreme drowsiness, fainting, severe abdominal pain, uncontrolled bleeding, or vomiting blood.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek prompt medical care if jaundice occurs with:
Dark urine and unusually pale stool
Persistent itching
Fever, repeated vomiting, or abdominal pain
Unexplained weight loss or marked weakness
A rapid increase in yellowing
A clear change from your usual familial jaundice pattern
A jaundiced newborn should be assessed promptly.
Treatment depends on the baby’s age, bilirubin level, gestational age, and other health factors.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a medical assessment if you develop jaundice for the first time, even if relatives have Gilbert syndrome.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Familial jaundice. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.