Early Signs and Symptoms of Jaundice You Can Notice

Jaundice is a warning indicator of underlying health problems and is frequently identified by the unique characteristic of the colouring of the skin and eyes, i.e., the yellowish colour. It can hamper the appetite of the babies as they can be fussy or have trouble eating. Excessive bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced during the disintegration of red blood cells, which builds up in the circulation and causes jaundice. Even though it is usually harmless, it might indicate issues with the liver or bile ducts, necessitating quick medical intervention. Knowing these telltale indicators enables people to seek timely diagnosis and treatment, resulting in the best possible health results.

Overview

Bilirubin is a yellow-orange pigment that is left over in the blood when red blood cells die. The bilirubin in the blood is filtered by the liver and excreted out of the system through faeces. When an excessive amount of bilirubin accumulates in the system, this results in hyperbilirubinemia, which ultimately leads to jaundice. This disease can be identified due to sudden discolouration in the skin and eyes.

Causes of Jaundice

Jaundice can affect any individual, regardless of age. Here are some of the underlying causes of jaundice:

Viral infections

Certain viral infections, such as hepatitis A or C, can harm liver cells and impede the processing of bilirubin.

Liver inflammation

Liver inflammation can be brought on by an infection, an autoimmune disease, drug or alcohol abuse, or exposure to chemicals. Jaundice can arise from chronic inflammation, causing harm to the liver.

Blockage of the bile ducts

The tiny tubes transport bile, a substance found in the liver and gallbladder, to the small intestine. If the tubes are obstructed, they can also cause jaundice.

Consumption of Alcohol

Consumption of alcohol for a long period can cause severe damage to the liver. A damaged liver could lead to a severe case of jaundice.

Hemolytic Disorders

The blood circulation in the system can also remove the destroyed blood cells too fast, raising the quantity of bilirubin.

Symptoms of Jaundice to Watch Out

Certain signals could indicate that the system has been infected with jaundice. Let’s take a look at some of those jaundice disease symptoms:

• The first of all jaundice disease symptoms is a sudden change in the colour of the skin and eyes. The entire body colour turns yellow. 
• Feeling exceptionally drained or restless could be an indication of underlying liver disease.
  
• Reduced excretion of bilirubin might cause stools to turn pale or clay-coloured.
  
• Excessive amounts of bilirubin can cause the gums and the interior of the mouth to turn yellow.
  
• Itchy hands and feet are prevalent symptoms of elevated bilirubin levels. The condition is known as pruritus.
  
• Jaundice can create an impact on the discolouration of the whites of the eyes. In severe cases, the white part of the eye can also turn yellow. 
  
• Along with other jaundice symptoms, a reduced appetite can also develop, which in extreme cases can lead to malnutrition or weight loss.
  
• When there is an overabundance of bilirubin in the urine, it might appear dark or brown.
  
• In certain cases, an individual may experience sudden throw-ups, which is only possible in cases where the blockage of the bile duct and severe liver disease could be the underlying reason. 
  
• Abdominal pain or discomfort is sometimes associated with jaundice, particularly when liver disease or gallstones are present.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Jaundice

Jaundice disease treatment is only possible after running several jaundice tests to diagnose the condition. Liver function tests, liver biopsy, bilirubin blood tests, and complete blood counts are some of the commonly used jaundice tests to confirm the presence of the infection.

The treatment of jaundice could only be possible if the underlying reasons are identified in the early stages. Here are some of the solutions related to jaundice disease treatment:

• Jaundice caused by gallstones may need to be treated, which usually entails removing the gallbladder.
• Medication for particular illnesses that contribute to jaundice, such as hepatitis antiviral medicines or gallstone dissolving medications, may be provided depending on the reason.
  
• If alcohol is the root cause of liver illness, then the key to treating jaundice will be to give up drinking.
  
• Surgery could be required to clear blockages or fix damaged ducts in situations when jaundice is brought on by bile duct obstruction.
  
• Blood transfusions may be part of the therapy for jaundice, which is characterised by an accelerated destruction that results in a deficiency of red blood cells.