Jaundice occurs due to high levels of bilirubin, a pigment created when your body replaces blood cells. Although jaundice often clears up within fourteen days, too much bilirubin content may continue to accumulate and result in permanent brain damage. Untreated jaundice can cause kernicterus, a condition when the bilirubin begins to collect in the child’s brain. Symptoms Yellow skin or eyes Fatigue Difficulty eating Loud, high-pitched cry Later, kernicterus may cause various health issues such as seizures, brain damage, and hearing loss.