Jaundice

What is Jaundice?

Jaundice is a condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes (sclera), caused by an excess of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. Bilirubin is normally processed by the liver, but if the liver is not functioning properly, or if there is an obstruction in the bile ducts, bilirubin can accumulate in the blood, leading to jaundice. Jaundice is often a symptom of underlying conditions such as liver disease, hepatitis, or bile duct obstruction.

Why is Jaundice important?

Jaundice is important because it:

• Can be a sign of serious liver or gallbladder conditions, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile duct obstruction.
• May indicate underlying health issues that require prompt medical attention and diagnosis.
• Can lead to complications if left untreated, as the accumulation of bilirubin can affect various organs and lead to further health problems.

Recognizing and addressing jaundice early is essential for diagnosing and treating the underlying cause, as well as preventing potential complications.

How does Jaundice affect health?

Jaundice affects health by:

• Signalling liver dysfunction: Jaundice is often caused by liver conditions such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, indicating that the liver is not processing bilirubin properly.
• Indicating a blockage in the bile ducts: A blocked bile duct can prevent bilirubin from being excreted, leading to jaundice and potential complications such as bile duct infections or gallstones.
• Affecting skin and eye appearance: The yellowing of the skin and eyes can be an aesthetic concern, but more importantly, it signals that there is a problem with bilirubin metabolism or excretion.
• Compromising organ function: If jaundice is left untreated, the excess bilirubin can have toxic effects on organs, including the brain (leading to a condition called kernicterus in severe cases).

Jaundice is a sign of an underlying problem that needs to be addressed to prevent further complications and improve liver function.

How can Jaundice be treated?

To treat jaundice:

• Identify and treat the underlying cause of jaundice, which could be a liver condition, bile duct obstruction, or hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells).
• For liver conditions, treatments may include medications, lifestyle changes (such as reducing alcohol intake), and in some cases, liver transplantation.
• If jaundice is caused by a bile duct obstruction, surgery or procedures like endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) may be necessary to remove the blockage.
• For newborns with jaundice, phototherapy (light therapy) is commonly used to break down excess bilirubin in the body.

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing jaundice and preventing long-term liver damage or other complications.

Key Takeaways from a Nutritionist

• Jaundice is a symptom of an underlying health condition, often related to liver dysfunction or bile duct obstruction.
• It is important to seek medical treatment to identify and address the cause of jaundice to prevent complications.
• Treating the underlying condition, whether through medications, surgery, or lifestyle changes, is key to managing jaundice and restoring health.