Jaundice is a medical condition in which the skin, the whites of the eyes and sometimes even the nails turn yellow. This yellowing occurs due to an increased level of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that forms when old red blood cells naturally break down. Under normal conditions, the liver processes bilirubin and removes it through bile. However, jaundice develops when this process is stopped by liver problems, bile duct obstruction or too much breakdown of red blood cells.
Although jaundice is not a disease, it is a warning sign of a health problem. In adults, it often shows liver issues or a blockage in the bile system and needs quick medical attention.
Jaundice is categorised into different stages based on the cause and how the liver handles bilirubin and knowing the type helps doctors treat it correctly, while early detection can prevent complications and make recovery easier. The main types of jaundice are as follows:
Symptoms of jaundice will appear either gradually or suddenly, depending upon the cause of the Jaundice. The following are common symptoms of the disease:
Additionally, the presence of jaundice in adults is often linked with sudden loss of weight or continuous pain in the abdomen. This may be a sign of a very serious problem in the functioning of the liver.
Diagnosis of liver jaundice is primarily done through some blood tests that evaluate the levels of bilirubin and liver function. In addition to that, a doctor will also do tests, which may include an ultrasound or a CT scan, to evaluate the presence of any form of blockage. In patients where obstructive jaundice is suspected, the doctor may do further tests to determine the cause and extent of the blockage.
Liver jaundice treatment is primarily based on the underlying cause of the liver malfunction. For the early stages of liver disease, treatment may be provided through medication and some simple changes in the lifestyle of the patient. However, for cases of liver malfunction that involve some blockage, the patient may be required to undergo endoscopy in the form of ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) or surgery to rectify the condition.
Liver disease can reach an advanced stage, where a transplantation procedure becomes a medical necessity. For patients seeking the best liver transplant surgeon in India, Dr. Prashant Kadam is known for providing expert liver care combined with advanced surgical skill. His approach focuses on personalised care to achieve the best possible results for every patient.
Although not all types of jaundice can be avoided, some risk factors can be controlled. Jaundice can be prevented with the following methods:
Early detection through regular doctor visits can reduce the risk of severe liver complications. This allows the doctor to provide timely treatment and effectively manage the disease. Combined with a healthy lifestyle, this approach supports long-term liver health and overall well-being.
If you have jaundice or other complications that could affect your liver, do not delay in getting a diagnosis and the necessary medical treatment.
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Liver jaundice is the yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by excess bilirubin due to liver issues or bile duct blockage.
It is caused by a blockage in the bile ducts, often due to gallstones, narrowing or tumours.
Yellow skin and eyes, dark urine, pale stools, itching, fatigue, abdominal pain and sudden weight loss.
Treatment depends on the cause; early cases use medication and lifestyle changes, while blockages may need endoscopy or surgery.