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Jaundice In Adults: Causes, Types, and Treatment
Jaundice in adults is a condition where the skin and whites of the eyes turn yellow due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. When the liver cannot effectively process and eliminate bilirubin, it accumulates in the body, leading to jaundice. This buildup of bilirubin can impact overall health by signaling underlying liver or bile duct issues, potentially affecting the body's ability to properly digest fats and remove toxins.
What are the Symptoms of Jaundice In Adults
Jaundice in adults typically presents with noticeable changes in the skin and eyes.
- Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes
- Dark urine
- Pale stools
- Itchy skin
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain
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Get Second OpinionCauses of Jaundice In Adults
Jaundice in adults is commonly caused by liver diseases, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, where the liver is unable to process bilirubin effectively.
- Hepatitis
- Liver cirrhosis
- Bile duct obstruction
- Gilbert's syndrome
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Hemolytic anemia
- Pancreatic cancer
- Druginduced liver injury
- Liver cancer
- Autoimmune hepatitis
Types of Jaundice In Adults
Jaundice in adults can be classified into various types based on the underlying causes, affecting the liver's ability to process bilirubin effectively.
- Hemolytic Jaundice: Caused by excessive breakdown of red blood cells, leading to an increase in bilirubin levels.
- Hepatocellular Jaundice: Results from liver damage or dysfunction, impairing the organ's ability to process bilirubin effectively.
- Obstructive Jaundice: Occurs when bile flow from the liver is obstructed, leading to a buildup of bilirubin in the bloodstream.
- Gilbert's Syndrome: A genetic condition causing mild elevation of bilirubin levels, often triggered by stress, fasting, or illness.
- DubinJohnson Syndrome: Rare inherited disorder characterized by impaired secretion of bilirubin into bile, leading to its accumulation in the liver.
Risk Factors
Jaundice in adults can be caused by conditions such as liver disease, hepatitis, bile duct obstruction, or excessive breakdown of red blood cells, with risk factors including alcohol abuse, viral infections, certain medications, and inherited genetic disorders.
- Liver disease
- Alcohol abuse
- Infections like hepatitis
- Medication side effects
- Blood disorders
- Pancreatic cancer
- Gallstones
- Autoimmune diseases
- Genetic disorders
- Agingrelated factors
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Diagnosis of Jaundice In Adults
Jaundice in adults is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history review, and laboratory tests.
- Blood tests
- Liver function tests
- Imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan, MRI)
- Hepatitis serology
- Liver biopsy
Treatment for Jaundice In Adults
Jaundice in adults is typically managed through a combination of treatment methods aimed at addressing the underlying cause of the condition.
- Phototherapy: A common treatment for jaundice that involves exposing the skin to a special type of light to help break down excess bilirubin in the body.
- Medications: Certain medications may be prescribed to help lower bilirubin levels and improve liver function in adults with jaundice.
- Fluid Intake: Increasing fluid intake, especially water, can help flush out excess bilirubin from the body and support overall liver function.
- Treating Underlying Cause: Addressing the underlying medical condition causing jaundice, such as liver disease or obstruction of the bile ducts, is essential for effective treatment.
- Liver Transplant: In severe cases of jaundice where the liver is severely damaged and other treatments are ineffective, a liver transplant may be considered as a last resort option.
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040-68334455Frequently Asked Questions
What is jaundice in adults?
Jaundice in adults is a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood.
What are the common causes of jaundice in adults?
Common causes of jaundice in adults include liver diseases (such as hepatitis or cirrhosis), bile duct obstruction, hemolytic anemia, and certain medications.
What are the symptoms of jaundice in adults?
Symptoms of jaundice in adults may include yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark urine, pale stools, fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain.
When should I see a doctor for jaundice?
You should see a doctor if you experience symptoms of jaundice, especially if they are accompanied by severe abdominal pain, fever, or confusion.
How is jaundice in adults treated?
Treatment for jaundice in adults depends on the underlying cause and may involve addressing liver dysfunction, managing bile duct obstructions, treating infections, or stopping medications causing the condition.
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