What is Jaundice?
Jaundice is a condition characterized by yellow discoloration of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes. It occurs when there is a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells, in the body.
Causes
Jaundice can be a sign of an underlying medical condition involving the liver, gallbladder, or bile ducts. The main causes of jaundice include:
1. Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver due to viral infections (hepatitis A, B, or C), alcohol abuse, autoimmune diseases, or certain medications.
2. Liver cirrhosis: Scar tissue formation in the liver, often resulting from chronic liver diseases such as hepatitis, alcoholism, or fatty liver disease.
3. Gallstones: Obstruction of the bile ducts by gallstones, impeding the flow of bile from the liver into the intestine.
4. Bile duct obstruction: Blockage of the bile ducts by tumors, strictures, or other abnormalities, preventing the normal drainage of bile from the liver.
5. Hemolytic anemia: An increased breakdown of red blood cells, leading to a higher production of bilirubin.
Other less common causes of jaundice include genetic disorders, liver abscesses, drug-induced liver injury, and certain types of cancer.
Symptoms
Symptoms of jaundice may vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Aside from yellowing of the skin and eyes, individuals with jaundice may experience dark-colored urine, pale-colored stools, fatigue, weakness, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and itching.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing the cause of jaundice involves medical evaluation, physical examination, blood tests (including liver function tests and bilirubin levels), imaging studies (such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI), and sometimes liver biopsy or other specialized tests.
Treatment for jaundice aims to address the underlying cause. This may involve antiviral medications for viral hepatitis, lifestyle changes and medications for liver diseases, surgery to remove gallstones or treat bile duct obstructions, or other specific interventions depending on the diagnosis.
If you or someone you know experiences jaundice or related symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention for proper evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate management.