"What Causes Jaundice?"

Jaundice: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Approaches

Jaundice, a prevalent medical condition, manifests as yellowing of the skin, mucous membranes, and whites of the eyes. It typically arises from elevated bilirubin levels in the body. Causes of jaundice encompass hepatocellular injury, bile duct obstruction, hemolytic disorders, neonatal jaundice, and drug-induced liver injury, among others. Persistent symptoms necessitate prompt medical attention and targeted treatment under a physician's guidance. The following are specific aspects:

1. Hepatocellular Injury

Damage to liver cells is a common cause of jaundice. Diseases such as hepatitis and liver cirrhosis impair liver cell function, affecting bilirubin metabolism. For jaundice due to hepatocellular injury, timely medical attention is crucial. Patients should follow doctors' instructions for liver disease treatment medications like liver-protecting tablets and diammonium glycyrrhizinate capsules. Maintaining healthy habits, abstaining from alcohol, and avoiding fatigue are also essential.

2. Bile Duct Obstruction

Bile duct obstruction prevents normal bile excretion, leading to jaundice. Common causes include gallstones and cholangitis. For jaundice caused by bile duct obstruction, immediate medical attention is advised, possibly requiring surgical interventions like choledochotomy or cholecystectomy. Medications like ursodeoxycholic acid capsules may be prescribed.

3. Hemolytic Disorders

Diseases like hemolytic anemia result in massive red blood cell destruction, releasing excessive bilirubin beyond the liver's processing capacity, causing jaundice. Patients should take medications like folic acid tablets and vitamin B12 tablets under doctors' supervision. Blood transfusions may be necessary.

4. Neonatal Jaundice

Newborns' immature liver function limits their bilirubin processing ability, predisposing them to jaundice. While specific treatment is often unnecessary, close medical monitoring is vital. Phototherapy or blood exchange may be considered if necessary.

5. Drug-Induced Liver Injury

Certain drugs can cause liver toxicity, leading to jaundice, e.g., high-dose acetaminophen use. Immediate discontinuation of the offending drug and administration of liver-protecting medications like bicyclol tablets and compound yiganling capsules under doctors' guidance are crucial.

To effectively alleviate jaundice symptoms, patients should maintain healthy habits, observe food hygiene, avoid excessive medication intake, and undergo regular health check-ups to detect and treat potential health issues promptly. Individuals experiencing related symptoms should seek medical attention immediately and inform doctors of possible causes for timely treatment and intervention.