What is Jaundice in Adults?

Jaundice is a disease that yellow colorates the skin, the eyes, and, sometimes, other parts of the body. This is a result of the accumulation of a yellow pigment called bilirubin in the blood.

Normally, it is picked up from the blood and disposed of by the liver. If the process boomerangs, then there is an increase in the bilirubin level, causing jaundice.

In any case, where jaundice is accompanied by any of the following symptoms in you or someone you know, immediate medical attention must be sought, including proper diagnosis and treatment.

Jaundice in Adults When to Worry?

While jaundice indicates several problems that are related to health, one has to be conscious of the fact that sometimes it may indicate something very severe. Here are some situations where you should be concerned and consult a doctor.

• Severe Abdominal Pain or Swelling

Severe abdominal pain and the presence of jaundice could mean that you have a liver or gallbladder disorder, either hepatitis or any of the other gallstone problems, which are serious conditions.

• Dark Urine or Pale Stools

Dark urine and pale stools are suggestive of some kind of improper functioning of the liver, which may be a precursor of hepatitis, cirrhosis, or blockage of the bile ducts.

• Unexplained Weight Loss

If you unexpectedly lose weight and, at the same time, jaundice appears, this might be a sign of pancreatic cancer or other serious condition, the doctor would rule things out right away.

• Chronic Fatigue

When there is no distinctive reason, feelings of extreme fatigue with jaundice can be brought on by liver disease or other kinds of serious diseases. In this case, chronic tiredness should not be ignored, and a visit to the doctor should be scheduled.

• Fever

Jaundice with fever may indicate an infection, such as in cholangitis, that may be due to bacterial infection of the bile ducts and could be fatal if not treated immediately.

Dr. Kailash Mishra
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Prime Gastro Liver Clinic