Jaundice
Jaundice is a medical condition that results from the build-up of bilirubin, a yellow-colored substance, in the body. This condition can make your skin, the whites of your eyes, and mucous membranes in your mouth turn yellow. While jaundice itself isn't a disease, it's typically a symptom of an underlying condition that needs immediate attention.
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What are the common causes of jaundice?
Jaundice is often caused by problems with the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. These can include hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, gallstones, and pancreatic cancer. Certain genetic conditions and blood disorders can also lead to jaundice.
What are the symptoms of jaundice?
Besides yellowing of the skin and eyes, other symptoms can include dark urine, light-colored stools, fatigue, weight loss, and itching of the skin.
Which doctor should I consult for jaundice?
You should see your primary care doctor who might refer you to a specialist, such as a hepatologist or gastroenterologist, depending on the suspected underlying cause.
What investigations might be advised if I have jaundice?
Blood tests, liver function tests, ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI can be used to identify the cause of jaundice. Sometimes, a liver biopsy might be necessary.
Why are these investigations important?
These tests help your doctor understand why you're experiencing jaundice and guide the treatment approach. It's important to pinpoint the exact cause to treat jaundice effectively.
Can lifestyle changes help with jaundice?
Yes, if the jaundice is due to lifestyle factors like alcohol abuse, making changes such as abstaining from alcohol can help resolve the condition.
Are there medications for jaundice?
Yes, but the medication will depend on the cause of the jaundice. For example, antibiotics may be prescribed for infections while antiviral drugs might be necessary for hepatitis.
What are some red flag signs with jaundice?
If you notice intense itching, rapid weight loss, severe abdominal pain, fever, or bloody or tar-colored stools along with jaundice, seek medical help immediately.
Can jaundice be a symptom of a serious illness?
Yes, jaundice can be a symptom of serious conditions like liver disease, pancreatic cancer, or severe infections. Any sign of jaundice should be evaluated by a healthcare professional promptly.
How is jaundice treated?
The treatment of jaundice focuses on managing the underlying condition causing it. This could involve medication, surgery, or other treatments.
Can stress cause jaundice?
No, stress does not cause jaundice. Jaundice is typically caused by physical conditions that interfere with the normal processing of bilirubin.
Can certain foods cause or worsen jaundice?
Certain foods can't cause jaundice, but if you already have a liver condition, consuming alcohol or eating fatty foods can worsen liver function and potentially intensify jaundice.
How can I prevent jaundice?
Prevention involves managing risk factors for the underlying conditions that cause jaundice. This includes maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol abuse, and protecting against hepatitis.
Can jaundice affect my overall health?
Yes, if left untreated, the conditions that cause jaundice can lead to complications that impact your overall health, such as liver failure or chronic liver disease.
Can aging cause jaundice?
Aging doesn't cause jaundice, but older adults might be more susceptible to the conditions that cause jaundice, like gallstones or certain types of cancer.
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