Jaundice is a condition that occurs when there’s excess bilirubin in the blood, causing our skin and eyes to turn yellow. It is common in newborns. However, it is rare in adults and indicates some serious underlying health conditions. So, early diagnosis and treatment from a trusted jaundice hospital in Chennai can help prevent further damage.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the causes, symptoms, and treatments for jaundice in adults.
What are the causes of jaundice in adults?
When old red blood cells are broken down in the liver, they produce a waste product called bilirubin. This yellowish-brown pigment is further metabolised by bacteria in our small intestine and eliminated via faeces. Several underlying conditions produce excess bilirubin or prevent our liver from eliminating it, causing jaundice. They include liver diseases, blockages in the bile ducts, and hemolysis.
Additional causes of jaundice as per liver hospital in Chennai:
- Gallbladder and gallstone diseases
- Side effects of medications
- Autoimmune disorders
- Certain medications
- Hemolytic anaemia
- Pancreatic tumour
- Alcohol
What are the symptoms?
In addition to the yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, there are others
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Intense abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Itchy skin
- Fever
These signs vary from person to person, depending on the cause of jaundice. Rarely, the disease may develop quickly and show severe symptoms, requiring immediate jaundice treatment in Chennai.
How is jaundice diagnosed in adults?
It involves a combination of physical examinations, blood, urine, and imaging tests. During the physical exam, a doctor will examine the colour change in your skin & eyes and check for abdominal pain or tenderness. A urine test is conducted next to confirm conjugated jaundice. Consequently, a blood test. It measures levels of bilirubin, liver enzymes, and other markers of liver function.
The leading liver hospital in Chennai uses ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRIs to diagnose liver or bile duct structural abnormalities. And based on all these results, your healthcare provider will determine the underlying cause of jaundice and develop a treatment plan.
How is jaundice treated?
It depends on the underlying cause. If the reason is liver disease such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, jaundice treatment in Chennai may involve medications or lifestyle changes to manage the condition. It helps prevent further liver damage. If it’s due to an obstruction in the bile ducts, your doctor may suggest surgery or an endoscopic procedure.
Acute viral hepatitis goes away on its own, as our liver has the unique ability to heal itself after damage. Also, medications can be used to reduce levels of bilirubin and relieve itchy symptoms. Jaundice in adults is rare and can be a sign of a serious underlying condition that requires timely diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect jaundice symptoms, get yourself checked at Chennai Liver Foundation, the leading jaundice hospital in Chennai, with experienced specialists providing comprehensive liver care. Early diagnosis of jaundice is critical to ensure that underlying conditions are managed and treated effectively before damage occurs.