Jaundice Home page Send to a friend Print this page Search for new topic
Definition


Jaundice Definition
Common names:
  • Eyes are Yellow
  • Icterus
  • Jaundice
  • Skin is Yellow
  • Yellow Eyes
  • Yellow Skin
What is jaundice?
A person with jaundice has yellow skin or eyes, caused by an abnormally elevated bilirubin level in the body. Bilirubin is produced from the breakdown of hemoglobin, which is the molecule that carries oxygen inside red blood cells. Usually, the liver processes the bilirubin and it is removed from the body in the stool. Jaundice is caused by an increased breakdown of red blood cells, poor processing of bilirubin by the liver, or blockage of the flow of bilirubin into the intestine. Images

What are the symptoms of jaundice?
Symptoms of jaundice include yellow skin and yellow eyes, brown urine, and itching. Less common symptoms of jaundice include right-upper abdominal pain, clay-colored stools, nausea, vomiting, weakness, confusion, and lethargy. Images

How does the doctor treat jaundice?
The treatment for jaundice depends on the underlying cause. Treatment for jaundice may include a liver disease diet, antihistamines, vitamin B supplements, medications, and surgery.

Continue to Jaundice Symptoms
About freeMD FAQ Terms of Use New Visitor Feedback
freeMD is provided for information purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for evaluation and treatment by a physician. Please review our terms of use.

Last Updated: Apr 3, 2009  References
Authors: Stephen J. Schueler, MDJohn H. Beckett, MDD. Scott Gettings, MD
Copyright 1989-2009 DSHI Systems, Inc.   Powered by: freeMD
Site Map
Jaundice References: