General concept of jaundice

Definition of jaundice Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by high levels of bilirubin in the blood, which causes the skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellow. This condition often indicates a problem with the liver or bile ducts. Causes of jaundice The causes of jaundice are many, as they can include liver infections, blockage of the bile ducts, or excessive breakdown of red blood cells. In some cases, jaundice may be a sign of serious diseases such as fatty liver disease or viral hepatitis. Therefore, it is necessary to consult a specialist doctor to determine the exact cause behind the appearance of these symptoms.

Types of jaundice

Jaundice due to liver cell damage Jaundice due to liver cell damage occurs when liver cells are damaged by factors such as viral infections or excessive alcohol consumption. In this case, the liver is unable to process bilirubin effectively, causing its levels to rise in the blood and the symptoms associated with jaundice to appear. Jaundice due to biliary obstruction Jaundice due to biliary obstruction occurs when bile is blocked from flowing to the intestine, causing bilirubin to build up in the blood. The blockage can be caused by gallstones or tumors. Therefore, diagnosing the cause of the blockage is essential to determine the appropriate treatment.

Symptoms of jaundice

Yellowing of the skin and eyes Yellowing of the skin and eyes is one of the most prominent symptoms of jaundice. High levels of bilirubin in the blood cause the skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellow, which means that it is necessary to consult a doctor to determine the underlying cause. Abdominal pain and loss of appetite A person with jaundice may feel pain in the abdominal area, and this often occurs as a result of problems with the liver or bile ducts. In addition, loss of appetite is another common symptom, which leads to weight loss and a feeling of fatigue, which requires the intervention of doctors to accurately diagnose the condition and reach the appropriate treatment.

Diagnosis of jaundice

Blood tests Blood tests are an essential step in diagnosing jaundice. The results of these tests help determine the levels of bilirubin, albumin, and liver enzymes, which helps doctors understand the cause of jaundice. Liver imaging tests Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, are used to evaluate the condition of the liver and its ducts. These tests help detect any blockages or abnormalities, which enables doctors to develop an appropriate treatment plan based on an accurate diagnosis.

Jaundice treatment

Drug treatments Drug treatments are the main options for treating jaundice, as certain medications are used to treat the underlying cause, such as antiviral medications in the case of a viral infection. Also, medications are used to relieve symptoms or reduce bilirubin levels in the blood. Surgical treatments In some cases, treating jaundice may require surgical procedures, especially if there is a blockage in the bile ducts, or if there is a need to remove gallstones. These interventions can contribute to achieving significant improvements in the patient's overall health.