Overview
Jaundice is a sign of an underlying problem with the liver, bile ducts or red blood cells. It is common and usually harmless in newborns, but in adults it always needs checking.
Symptoms
- Yellow skin and eyes
- Dark urine and pale stools
- Itching
- Abdominal pain, fever or weight loss depending on the cause
Causes and risk factors
In adults, causes include hepatitis, alcohol, gallstones blocking the bile duct, liver disease, some medicines and cancers of the pancreas or bile ducts. In newborns, it is often due to a normal immature liver, but can be due to blood group problems or infection.
Diagnosis
Blood tests measure bilirubin and liver function. Ultrasound and other scans look at the liver and bile ducts.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause. Newborns may need phototherapy. Blocked bile ducts may need an ERCP or surgery.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for any yellowing of the skin or eyes. Seek urgent care for jaundice in the first 24 hours of life or a baby who is very sleepy or feeding poorly.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
