Disease
Jaundice
Overview of Jaundice
Jaundice is a condition where the skin, whites of the eyes and mucous membranes turn yellow due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood. It is not a disease itself but a sign of underlying health issues often related to the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. Whether you are noticing slightly yellow eyes in adults, a yellowish face, or yellowing of the skin and eyes, it is important to understand what causes jaundice and how to address it.
Types of Jaundice
- Hepatocellular Jaundice: Linked to liver conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis.
- Hemolytic Jaundice: Caused by rapid breakdown of red blood cells.
- Obstructive Jaundice: Due to blockages in the bile ducts from gallstones or tumors.
- Neonatal Jaundice: Common in newborns, usually harmless but needs monitoring.
Symptoms of Jaundice
- Yellowing of eyes (jaundiced eyes)
- Yellow skin or yellow belly
- Dark urine
- Pale stools
- Fatigue
- Abdominal pain
- Itching
- Nausea and vomiting
Causes of Jaundice
- Liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis)
- Gallstones
- Pancreatic cancer
- Hemolytic anemia
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Drug-induced liver damage
- Infections or autoimmune conditions
Complications in Jaundice
- Chronic liver damage
- Liver failure
- Bleeding issues
- Brain dysfunction (hepatic encephalopathy)
- Gallbladder infections
- Malnutrition and weakness
Risk Factors of Jaundice
- Heavy alcohol use
- Hepatitis infections
- Obesity
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Use of certain medications
- Family history of liver disease
Preventions of Jaundice
- Limit alcohol intake
- Vaccinate against hepatitis A and B
- Practice safe sex
- Avoid sharing needles or razors
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Be cautious with medications and supplements
- Eat a liver-friendly diet
Diagnosis of Jaundice
- Physical exam (checking for yellow eyes or yellowish face)
- Liver function tests
- Bilirubin levels
- Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI
- Liver biopsy (in severe cases)
- Blood tests for viral hepatitis
Treatments of Jaundice
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of jaundice:
- Antiviral or steroid medications (for hepatitis)
- Lifestyle changes (diet, alcohol cessation)
- Surgery or endoscopy (for bile duct blockages)
- Phototherapy (for neonatal jaundice)
Prognosis of Jaundice
- Most cases improve with timely diagnosis and proper care
- Jaundice due to infections or diet often resolves fully
- Chronic liver issues require lifelong monitoring and management
- Early treatment reduces risk of complications
- Quality of life is generally good when jaundice is well managed
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- We provide full support from diagnosis to recovery
- Expert liver specialists handle every case with compassion
- Customised care plans for both acute and chronic jaundice
- Access to modern diagnostic tools and advanced treatments
- Multidisciplinary team approach to address all underlying causes
- Focused on patient comfort, clarity, and fast recovery
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- What is causing my jaundice?
- How serious is my condition?
- Will I need surgery or just medicine?
- What changes should I make in my diet?
- Can this condition come back in the future?
- How long will the treatment take?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
- A clear explanation of what jaundice means
- Honest answers without overwhelming medical terms
- A proper plan for testing and treatment
- Advice tailored to your lifestyle and age
- Emotional support, not just medical care
- Easy-to-understand instructions for diet, rest, and medication