Jaundice is a condition in which the eyes and mucous membranes turn yellow. This yellow color is caused by a high bilirubin level, a bile pigment. The liver filters bilirubin from the blood to remove it from your stool. If there is too much bilirubin then it causes hyperbilirubin. That is the reason behind the jaundice. You might amazed to know that about 60% have jaundice within a couple of days after birth. Let’s explore what are the causes, symptoms, and treatment of jaundice.
What are the Causes of Jaundice?
Well, there are different causes of jaundice and it could be increased levels of bilirubin caused by reabsorption of a large hematoma (a collection of clotted blood under the skin). Hemolytic anemias is also a reason behind this condition. When blood cells are destroyed and removed from the bloodstream before their normal lifespan is over then hemolytic anemias take place.
Other than jaundice can also be due to hepatitis A, Epstein-Barr virus infection, and chronic Hepatitis B and C. Autoimmune disorders, alcohol, rare genetic defects, and medicines may also cause jaundice. Gallstones, inflammation, and gallbladder cancer obstruct the bile ducts which eventually lead to jaundice.
What are the Symptoms of Jaundice?
Symptoms of jaundice are fever, chills, abdominal pain, flu-like symptoms, change in skin color, clay-colored stool, inflammation of the liver, acute hepatitis A, pyoderma gangrenosum(a type of skin disease), Weight loss, confusion, bloody vomit in severe condition, abnormal drowsiness and feeling unusually tired. Consulting a doctor while facing jaundice symptoms should be your priority instead of taking medications without consulting a doctor because it can negatively impact your body.
How to Diagnose Jaundice?
With the help of a few methods, Jaundice could be diagnosed. A Hepatitis panel is a blood test through which hepatitis A, B, or C can be diagnosed, and if there are no hepatitis antibodies then it means you don’t have jaundice. Tests for determining jaundice are CT scan, ultrasound, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography, and MRI for checking the blocked ducts near the gallbladder. Liver biopsy, tests for analyzing enzyme levels, and this also helps in understanding how well your liver is functioning. During a liver biopsy, a small incision is made to remove with a needle inserted into the belly liver through a vein in your neck and cut in your belly. Prothrombin time is also checked to measure how long it takes for blood plasma to clot.
What are the Treatments for Jaundice?
Well, jaundice usually doesn’t require treatments and its complications and causes could be treated with medications. Phototherapy may be advised for infants. During this process, fluorescent white or blue spectrum light that breaks down bilirubin is released from the body. For this therapy, you can visit the Best Multispeciality Hospital in Lucknow for experienced healthcare staff and advanced technologies.
To reduce the risk of jaundice you should stop smoking and drinking alcohol. Avoid herbal supplements and have a safe sex practice. Also, Maintain a healthy weight and avoid taking medications without consulting your doctor.
Conclusion
If you are facing jaundice then you should consult your doctor for early diagnosis. There are different causes of jaundice such as Hepatitis B and C, autoimmune disorders, alcohol, rare genetic defects, and medicines that may also cause jaundice, gallstones, inflammation, and gallbladder cancer. Understanding the symptoms of jaundice will not only help in early diagnosis but also help you get timely treatment otherwise it may lead to severe conditions that will be difficult to control. Early detection and treatment is a key part of fighting against jaundice and enhancing your overall health.
Also Read – Symptoms and Causes of Ectopic Pregnancy
