Definition | Causes | Risk Factors | Symptoms | Diagnosis | Treatment | Prevention

Definition

Jaundice is a yellow discoloration of the skin, mucus membranes, and whites of the eyes.

Causes

Jaundice occurs when excess bilirubin builds up in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow-brown colored substance in bile. Bile is a liquid that carries waste products and bilirubin away from the liver. It also helps break down fats in the small intestine. It is formed during the body's normal process of breaking down red blood cells.

There are several reasons why too much bilirubin can build up in the blood. They include:

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase your chances of getting jaundice are similar to risk factors for liver and gallbladder disorders. They may include:

Symptoms

Jaundice may indicate another condition or disease. In addition to jaundice, you may experience other symptoms. Symptoms may include:

  • Fatigue
  • Itching
  • Fever or chills
  • Unexplained weight loss

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. In order to make a diagnosis on what is causing jaundice, your doctor may recommend tests. Tests may include:

Treatment

In most other types of jaundice, the specific condition causing it must be treated. There are many treatments that may be used for liver and gallbladder problems depending on the exact condition. They include:

Mild jaundice in newborns is common and usually clears without treatment. If bilirubin levels rise above a certain level, the baby may receive phototherapy, which is treatment with a special ultraviolet light. In Gilbert syndrome, jaundice tends to clear without treatment.

If you are diagnosed with jaundice, follow your doctor's instructions.

Prevention

Prevention depends on the disorder causing jaundice. You may not be able to prevent some of the disorders. However, you can take the steps below to decrease your chance of developing liver disease: