What is Jaundice?
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes) occurs when bilirubin (a yellow pigment) builds up in the body. It’s a symptom, not a disease— it signals an underlying issue.
Symptoms of Jaundice
- Yellowing of:
- Skin (face, chest, abdomen)
- Eyes (sclera)
- Mucous membranes (inside mouth)
- Urine: Dark (tea-colored)
- Stools: Pale or clay-like
- Itching (severe)
- Fatigue, weakness
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Fever, chills (if infection)
- Nausea, loss of appetite*
When to see a doctor?
If symptoms last >2 days or severe.
Causes of Jaundice
1. Liver Diseases:
- Hepatitis (A, B, C, E)
- Cirrhosis (liver scarring)
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
- Autoimmune hepatitis
2. Bile Duct Issues:
- Gallstones (blockage)
- Bile duct tumors (cancer)
- Pancreatic cancer (head of pancreas)
- Stricture (narrowing of ducts)
3. Blood Disorders:
- Hemolytic anemia (RBC breakdown)
- Sickle cell disease
- Thalassemia
4. Infections:
- Malaria
- Sepsis
- Leptospirosis
5. Cancers:
- Liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma)
- Pancreatic cancer
- Gallbladder cancer
- Metastatic cancer (spread to liver)
6. Medications/Toxins:
- Paracetamol overdose
- Certain antibiotics, chemotherapy
- Industrial chemicals (e.g., solvents)
7. Genetic Conditions:
- Gilbert’s syndrome (mild, harmless)
- Cryoglobulinemia
8. Newborn Jaundice:
- Physiological (common, resolves on its own)
- Breastfeeding issues
- Blood group incompatibility (Rh, ABO)
9. Other Conditions:
- Heart failure (fluid buildup)
- Cholangitis (bile duct infection)
Diagnosis at Dr. Santhosh Gastro and Liver Centre
Blood tests:
- Total/Indirect/Direct Bilirubin
- Liver Function Tests (LFT)
- CBC (anemia, infection)
Imaging:
- Ultrasound, CT, MRI
- Liver biopsy
Urine analysis
Avoid starting treatment before consulting.
Treatment Options for Jaundice
Note: Depends on the underlying cause. Consult a doctor
1. Medication
- Antivirals (hepatitis B)
- Antibiotics (bacterial infections)
- Steroids (autoimmune conditions)
- Anti-itch creams
- Pain management (paracetamol, avoid NSAIDs)
- Avoid self-medication )OTC “liver detox” products)
2. Endoscopic Procedures
ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography)
- Best for: Gallstones, bile duct blockages, strictures
- How: Thin tube (endoscope) via mouth to remove stones or place a stent
Benefits:
- Minimally invasive (no cuts)
- 1–2 days recovery
- 95% success rate
Risks:
Bleeding, infection (rare with experts)
Sphincterotomy:
Opens bile duct
Stent placement:
Relieves tumor-related blockages
Is ERCP safe?
- Yes, 95% success. Risks are rare with experts.
How long to recover from ERCP?
- 1-2 days. Rest, soft diet for a week.
Can I avoid surgery with ERCP?
- Often yes, if the blockage is treatable via endoscopy.
3. Surgical
- Gallbladder removal (cholecystectomy): If stones recur
- Bile duct repair: For strictures/injuries
- Tumor removal (Whipple procedure)
- Liver transplant: Severe cirrhosis
Recovery: 4–6 weeks
4. Phototherapy
- For newborns: Blue light breaks down bilirubin
- Mild, short-term jaundice
5. Blood Transfusion
- For hemolytic anemia (excess RBC breakdown)
6. Lifestyle & Supportive Care
- Hydration (IV fluids)
- Low-fat, high-fiber diet
- Avoid alcohol
- Rest
7. Alternative/Complementary
- Not recommended without a doctor’s approval
- Risk: Herbal supplements may worsen liver damage
Risks of Self-Treatment in Jaundice
Don’t:
- Use OTC “liver detox” products or herbal remedies (giloy, dandelion) without a doctor’s approval.
- Stop prescribed medications (antivirals, antibiotics).
- Ignore symptoms (yellowing, dark urine, fever).
- Buy medicines from unauthorized sellers.
- Delay medical help.
Why it’s dangerous:
- Liver damage: Herbs like comfrey or overdosed supplements.
- Delayed diagnosis: Missed hepatitis, cancer, obstructions.
- Complications: Liver failure, brain damage, bleeding, infection spread.
- Interactions: Herbs + medicines (e.g., paracetamol).
Alternative Medicine Risks:
- Unregulated herbs (giloy, kutki) may wrench liver enzymes.
- Ayurvedic/homeopathic treatments lack scientific proof for jaundice.
- Complications: Allergic reactions, organ damage, delayed treatment.
- Example: “Jaundice teas” may contain harmful chemicals.
Examples of Dangerous Practices:
- Raw sugarcane juice “cleanses.”
- High-dose vitamin A.
- Unregulated “jaundice syrups.”
- Stopping antivirals without a doctor.
Myths vs Facts
Myth: Herbal remedies are safe and natural.
Fact: Many herbs interact with medicines and harm the liver.
Myth: Detoxing cleans the liver.
Fact: The liver heals if the cause is treated ,no “cleansing” needed.
Myth: Lemon water or detox teas cure jaundice.
Fact: Hydration helps, but doesn’t treat the cause.
Myth: Jaundice is always harmless.
Fact: It can signal serious conditions (cirrhosis, cancer).
Myth: “Rest alone will cure jaundice.”
Fact: Medical evaluation is needed
Seek a doctor immediately if symptoms appear.
Why Treat Early?
- Prevents complications (liver failure, brain damage in infants).
- 90% success with timely intervention.
- Avoid chronic liver disease risk.
Possible Complications If Untreated
- Kernicterus (brain damage in infants)
- Liver failure
- Bleeding disorders
- Infection
Reduce Your Risk
- Vaccinate for hepatitis A/B
- Avoid contaminated food/water
- Limit alcohol
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Screen for liver diseases (if family history)
- NEVER self-medicate for jaundice.
Why Choose Dr. Santhosh Gastro and Liver Centre?
- Expert hepatologists
- Advanced diagnostics (high-resolution ultrasound, FibroScan)
- Personalized treatment
- 24/7 support
- Minimally invasive procedures
- Guidance on safe alternatives
Key Takeaways
- Don’t ignore yellowing — seek help immediately
- Early detection = better outcomes
- Avoid self-treatment
- Healthy habits prevent recurrence
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is jaundice dangerous? What if I ignore it?
Untreated jaundice can lead to liver failure or brain damage. See a doctor NOW.
Can jaundice be cured completely?
Yes! Treat the cause (infection, blockage, etc.) and you’ll recover.
What should I eat if I have jaundice?
“Drink plenty of water, eat fruits, veggies, and light meals. Avoid oily, spicy food.
How long will I have jaundice?*
1–2 weeks (infection) to months (liver disease). Consult a doctor to know for sure.
Can I treat jaundice at home with herbal remedies?
No. See a doctor. Herbal ‘detoxes’ can harm your liver.
My newborn has yellow eyes. Is it normal?
Common, but check with a pediatrician if it worsens.
Do I need surgery?
Not always. Medication or ERCP may work. Ask an expert.
Can I catch jaundice from someone?
No, but hepatitis (the cause) might spread. Wash hands
Can I take painkillers like ibuprofen?
“Ask a doctor. Use paracetamol, avoid NSAIDs.
When should I rush to the doctor?*
If you’re yellow, urine is dark, or fever lasts >2 days. Don’t wait.
