Jaundice

Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by a yellowish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes, caused by an accumulation of bilirubin in the body.

Causes of Jaundice

• Hemolytic jaundice: Caused by the breakdown of red blood cells, leading to an increase in bilirubin production.
• Hepatocellular jaundice: Caused by liver cell damage or disease, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, which impairs the liver's ability to process bilirubin.
• Obstructive jaundice: Caused by a blockage in the bile ducts, preventing bilirubin from being excreted into the intestine.
• Neonatal jaundice: A common condition in newborns, caused by the breakdown of red blood cells and the liver's immaturity.
• Gilbert's syndrome: A genetic disorder that affects the liver's ability to process bilirubin.

Symptoms of Jaundice

• Yellowish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes
• Dark urine
• Pale or clay-colored stools
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal pain

Diagnosis of Jaundice

Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and laboratory tests, including:

• Bilirubin level tests
• Liver function tests (LFTs)
• Complete blood count (CBC)
• Imaging studies, such as ultrasound or CT scans
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP)

Treatment of Jaundice

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Supportive care: Rest, hydration, and nutrition.
• Medications: To manage symptoms, such as itching or painundefined.
• Blood transfusions: To replace red blood cells in cases of hemolytic jaundice.
• Surgery: To relieve blockages in the bile ducts or remove gallstonesundefined.
• Liver transplantation: In severe cases of liver diseaseundefined.

Complications of Jaundice

If left untreated, jaundice can lead to complications such as:

• Kernicterus: A condition that causes brain damage in newborns with severe jaundice.
• Liver failure
• Respiratory problems
• Infections

Prevention of Jaundice

Prevention measures include:

• Avoiding exposure to hepatitis viruses
• Getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B
• Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption
• Maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle
• Seeking medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is jaundice?
A medical condition causing yellowing of skin and eyes.

What causes jaundice?
High levels of bilirubin in the blood.

What is bilirubin?
A yellow pigment produced during red blood cell breakdown.

What are symptoms of jaundice?
Yellow skin, yellow eyes, dark urine, pale stools.

Is jaundice contagious?
No, it is not contagious.

Can jaundice be treated?
Yes, treatment depends on the underlying cause.

What are common treatments for jaundice?
Medications, phototherapy, blood transfusions.

Can jaundice be prevented?
Sometimes, depending on the underlying cause.

Is jaundice more common in newborns?
Yes, it is common in newborns due to liver immaturity.

When to seek medical attention for jaundice?
If symptoms worsen or last longer than expected.