Welcome! Are you curious to know what causes jaundice? Read on to discover the shocking causes of jaundice and how to prevent it from happening to you.
Discover the Shocking Causes of Jaundice!
What is Jaundice?
Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes caused by an accumulation of bilirubin, a yellow-orange bile pigment. It is the most common symptom of an underlying medical condition that affects the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. In newborns, jaundice is a very common condition that usually resolves on its own without treatment. In adults, jaundice is more likely to be a symptom of a more serious medical condition.
What Are the Symptoms of Jaundice?
The most common symptom of jaundice is yellowing of the skin, which usually begins on the face and spreads to other parts of the body. Other symptoms include yellowing of the whites of the eyes, dark urine, pale-colored stools, fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and itching.
What Are the Causes of Jaundice?
The most common causes of jaundice are liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and cancer. Other causes include biliary tract infections, blockage of the bile ducts, certain medications, and inherited disorders.
What Are the Risk Factors for Jaundice?
Risk factors for jaundice include being over the age of 65, having a weakened immune system, having a history of liver disease, and using certain medications, such as acetaminophen or birth control pills.
What Are the Complications of Jaundice?
If left untreated, jaundice can lead to serious complications, such as liver failure, anemia, and neurologic problems, such as confusion and seizures.
How Is Jaundice Diagnosed?
Jaundice is usually diagnosed by a physical examination. Your doctor may also order blood tests to check your bilirubin levels, as well as other tests to check for underlying medical conditions.
How Is Jaundice Treated?
The treatment for jaundice depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, treatment may involve medications to reduce the bilirubin levels or to treat the underlying condition. In severe cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.
Can Jaundice Be Prevented?
In some cases, jaundice can be prevented by taking steps to reduce the risk factors, such as avoiding alcohol and certain medications.
An Example of Jaundice
An example of jaundice is a baby who has been diagnosed with neonatal jaundice. This condition is caused by an excess of bilirubin in the baby’s bloodstream, which is usually caused by an immature liver. The baby’s skin and eyes may appear yellow, and the baby may be more tired than usual. Treatment may involve phototherapy, in which the baby is exposed to a special type of light, or in some cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary.
Jaundice is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of underlying medical conditions. It is important to seek medical attention if you are experiencing any of the symptoms, as early detection and treatment can help prevent serious complications.
Source: CHANNET YOUTUBE Osmosis from Elsevier