Jaundice

Jaundice is a disease condition which features yellowish pigmentation of skin and sclera of eyes. The condition is caused by the accumulation of bilirubin in blood. These are actually the bi-products of disintegration of red blood corpuscles. In a normal condition, the body is capable of eliminating the bilirubin from the body. But when diseases affecting liver or biliary system are present, the entire process is upset. Neonates are likely to develop jaundice as their liver is not fully functional. Jaundice seen in adults can be classified into haemolytic jaundice, hepatocellular jaundice and obstructive jaundice.

Symptoms

Yellowish pigmentation all over the body is the most prominent symptom. In dark people, it can be noted in the eyes. Usually other manifestations greatly depend upon the causative factors. Other symptoms include weakness, abrupt weight loss, pain in abdomen, fever and vomiting. In case of an obstructive jaundice, severe itching sensation may be noted. The colour of urine is darkened and stools get paler.

Causes

According to the types of jaundice, causes vary.

Haemolytic jaundice: – This type is the result of disintegration of red blood cells on a large scale. Usually metabolic problems or anaemia might be the reason.

Hepatocellular jaundice:- A condition that prevents the escape of bilirubin from the liver is the cause for this condition. Conditions affecting liver such as liver cirrhosis, liver failure or hepatitis ultimately leads to hepatocellular jaundice.

Obstructive jaundice:- Conditions that makes it impossible for bilirubin to leave the liver usually by a blockage of bile duct results in this type of jaundice. Cysts, gallstone or a tumour of the pancreas or bile duct can result in this condition.

Inherited disorders like Rotor’s syndrome, Gilbert’s syndrome, Crigler-Najjar syndrome or Dubin-Johnson syndrome are often found to cause jaundice.

Diagnosis:

A detailed blood analysis will give adequate information about the causative factor. A liver scan may be done to monitor its condition. Liver biopsy is indicated in some cases which gives detailed information about the liver functioning.

Treatment

The treatment depends upon the causative factors. A number of investigative procedures may be needed to determine the causes. Iron tablets may be administered to treat the type of jaundice often resulted by anaemia.
Hepatitis is often caused by viruses and requires prompt antiviral therapy.
When jaundice is the result of a particular treatment, alternative measures need to be sought.
Any obstruction leading to jaundice needs to be corrected with help of surgery.
Alcoholism and other grave conditions may result in irreversible liver damage and often requires liver transplant.

Prevention

Lifestyle changes can be helpful in preventing liver damage and thereby jaundice. Quit habits like smoking and alcoholism as these can seriously damage liver. Reduce consumption of beverages like tea and coffee and make sure to drink lot of water. Add more of green leafy vegetables and vivid fruits to the daily menu. Consuming diet low in fat can also be helpful. Perform regular exercises and have adequate sleep daily.