What is the Cause of Yellow Eyes?

When the bilirubin accumulates in blood, yellowing of the eyes takes place. Bilirubin is a yellow substance that is formed as a result of the normal destruction of red blood cells. The liver normally removes and cleanses bilirubin in the body, but on occasions where the liver is not able to do this normally, the bilirubin gathers up causing the sclera to turn yellow.


1. Liver Diseases

The liver is very important in the breakdown of the bilirubin. Any disorder that influences the state of the liver can cause jaundice. These include:


  • Hepatitis: An inflammation of the liver which, in most cases, is caused by viruses (e.g., hepatitis A, B and C).
  • Cirrhosis: continuous liver damage is a scarring of liver tissue.
  • Liver Cancer: This is an abnormality that is a malignancy of liver cells.
  • Alcoholic Liver Disease: Long-term alcoholism that causes liver disease.

2. Gallbladder Issues

Gallbladder is a storage of the bile, which is produced by the liver, and it aids in the digestion of fats. Bile may become blocked in the bile duct either with gallstones or obstruction, and this causes jaundice.


  • Gallstones: Solid masses of bile which may be blocked and obstruct the bile ducts.
  • Cholestasis: This is a condition in which there is a low flow of bile or an impaired flow of bile.

3. Hemolytic Anemia

Hemolytic anemia is excessive breakdown of red blood cells overburdening the liver with the production of bilirubin. This type of jaundice may result due to conditions including sickle cell disease and autoimmune hemolytic anemia.


4. Pancreatic Diseases

The pancreas is an organ that secretes secret enzymes that help in digesting food, and others maintain the blood sugar level. Any disease of the pancreas, including pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer, may cause obstruction of the bile duct, resulting in accumulation of bilirubin and yellow eyes.


Yellow Eyes Symptoms

Although the most visible symptom of jaundice is yellow eyes, jaundice may lead to a variety of other symptoms, depending on its underlying cause.


  • Yellowing of the skin: Within serious cases, the yellow color spreads to the skin making the individual look jaundiced.
  • Dark Urine: The urine can be dark, as the color of cola, as there is a surplus quantity of bilirubin excreted in the urine.
  • Pale Stools: Stools can be light in color as there is no bile in the digestive system.
  • Itching: Itching due to the accumulation of bile salts is called pruritus.
  • Fatigue: Fatigue and weakness are also symptoms of most liver diseases because the body is not competent to process the toxins.
  • Abdominal pains: Sometimes, the pain can be experienced on the upper right side of the abdomen containing the liver and gallbladder.

Yellow Eyes Diagnosis

In case you or a family member have yellow eyes please see a doctor. A physician will make a physical examination and might administer the following tests:


  • Blood tests: These are conducted to test liver functioning, bilirubin level and anemia infection or test.
  • Ultrasound scan or CT scan: The images may be taken to help identify the presence of gallstones or liver damage or organ abnormality.
  • Liver Biopsy: Sometimes a small piece of liver tissue can be collected to study the condition of the liver.
  • Hepatitis Panel: This test is able to test viral infections that can impact the liver.

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Yellow Eyes Treatment

Treatment of yellow eyes purely depends on the cause of the condition.


1. Liver Disease Treatment

  • Hepatitis: In case of viral hepatitis, antiviral drugs can be given as a way of alleviating the effects of the infection.
  • Cirrhosis: No cure exists to treat cirrhosis but it may be treated by slowing down its rate and effective management; this entails the administration of medications as well as lifestyle modification.
  • Liver Transplant: In extreme cases, when the liver functions are highly impaired, then a liver transplant could be required.

2. Gallbladder Problems

  • Stones of the gall: That may be treated by drug to dissolve the stones or sometimes the entire gallbladder has to be stopped (cholecystectomy).
  • Bile Duct Obstruction: The obstructions in the bile duct can be operated or endoscopically removed.

3. Hemolytic Anemia

  • Blood Transfusion: In severe situations, blood transfusion can be necessary to help in controlling the symptoms of anemia.
  • Steroids or Immunosuppressive Drugs: This could be prescribed in case the anemia is caused by an autoimmune disease.

4. Pancreatic Issues

  • Pancreatitis: It is treated using pain relievers and fluids to facilitate hydration.
  • Pancreatic Cancer: This can take the form of surgery, chemotherapy or radiation treatment depending on the level of cancer.
  • Besides medical treatment, a healthy diet, less consumption of alcohol and avoiding any medications that may damage the liver is also advisable to people with liver conditions.

Conclusion

Jaundice (yellow eyes) is something that one should take seriously, yet knowing the causes and symptoms, one can cope with early diagnosis and cure. It is also important to consult a doctor whenever you observe that your eyes are turning yellow because it could be an indication of a health problem that needs to be addressed immediately. Most of the causes of yellow eyes can be handled with appropriate care and treatment and in some instances, the condition can be reversed. In case of uncertainty, always make a call to a medical practitioner to ensure he/she gets a proper diagnosis and possible treatment plan as well.


Please book an appointment with the best Eye Specialist in Lahore, Karachi, Islamabad, and all major cities of Pakistan through InstaCare, or call our helpline at 03171777509 to find a verified doctor for your disease.