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Warning-sign checks

Jaundice causes: when to get help

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. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Go to an emergency department or call emergency services if jaundice occurs with:

    • Confusion, collapse, or unusual difficulty staying awake
    • Severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain
    • Fever or shaking chills with abdominal pain
    • Vomiting blood or passing black, tar-like stools
    • Severe weakness, breathing difficulty, or uncontrolled bleeding

    Seek immediate care if a jaundiced baby is difficult to wake, feeds poorly, has unusual movements, or seems very unwell.

    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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Arrange same-day medical advice if you or an older child develops new yellowing of the skin or eyes.

    Do not wait for it to become more noticeable.

    Dark urine, pale stools, widespread itching, or ongoing upper abdominal discomfort also need prompt assessment.

    Contact a maternity or newborn care service promptly if a baby looks jaundiced.

    Jaundice during the first 24 hours after birth needs urgent assessment.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up may be appropriate if you already have a confirmed condition such as Gilbert syndrome and the symptoms follow your usual pattern.

    Book an appointment if episodes become more frequent, last longer, or occur with new symptoms.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Jaundice causes. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.