Jaundice
What is Jaundice?
Jaundice is a condition where the eyes and skin turn yellow, and urine becomes dark yellow. It occurs when there is a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that the liver normally removes from the body.
Jaundice is not a disease itself — it is a sign that your liver or bile ducts may be in trouble and needs medical attention.
Why do we get Jaundice?
Jaundice occurs when the liver fails to process bilirubin properly or when bile flow from the liver to the intestine is blocked.
What causes Jaundice?
1. Causes Outside the Liver (Before the Liver)
- Breakdown of red blood cells (Hemolysis)
- Genetic blood disorders (like Thalassemia)
2. Causes Inside the Liver
- Viral Hepatitis (Hepatitis A, B, C, E)
- Alcohol-induced liver disease
- Drug or toxin-induced liver injury
These are collectively called medical jaundice and are usually treated with medications.
3. Causes due to block in the outflow of bile (After the Liver)
- Stones in the bile duct
- Bile duct cancer
- Gall bladder cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
This type of jaundice is known as surgical or obstructive jaundice and requires immediate surgical treatment.
What are the types of Jaundice?
Medical Jaundice
Caused by diseases affecting the liver directly (like viral hepatitis or alcohol-induced injury). These are managed with medicines and supportive care.
Surgical Jaundice (Obstructive Jaundice)
Occurs due to a blockage in bile flow caused by stones or tumors. These cases need surgery or endoscopic procedures to relieve the obstruction.
What are the symptoms of Medical Jaundice?
- Yellowish discoloration of eyes and skin
- Dark yellow urine
- Fatigue and loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Mild abdominal pain or discomfort
- Fever (in hepatitis)
What are the symptoms of Jaundice due to a block in bile outflow (Surgical Jaundice)?
- Intense yellowing of eyes and skin
- Itching all over the body
- Pale or clay-colored stools
- Dark urine
- Abdominal pain, fever, or vomiting
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
These symptoms may indicate stones or tumors in the bile duct, gall bladder, or pancreas and need urgent medical attention.
How to cure Jaundice?
Jaundice can be cured based on the type of Jaundice.
Treatment for Medical Jaundice:
- Managed with medications, rest, and supportive liver care.
- Viral hepatitis and alcohol-related liver problems usually improve with medical treatment.
Treatment for Obstructive (Surgical) Jaundice:
- Bile duct stones: Removed using endoscopy (ERCP) or surgery, depending on the stone size and patient’s condition.
- Tumors in bile duct, gall bladder, or pancreas: Require surgical removal or advanced interventions.
If you notice yellow eyes, dark urine, or any signs of jaundice — don’t delay.
At The Best Gastro Care Centre
Your Health, Our Priority
If you notice yellow eyes, dark urine, or any signs of jaundice — don’t delay.
Visit The Best Gastro Care Centre for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.