In a healthy body, bilirubin is processed by the liver and excreted in the stool. However, if the liver is unable to process bilirubin properly due to a medical condition such as liver disease, or if there is an excessive breakdown of red blood cells, bilirubin can accumulate in the blood and lead to jaundice.
(Source - The Surgeons Collective Perth)
Types Of Jaundice
· Pre-hepatic jaundice- This type of jaundice is caused by an increase in the breakdown of red blood cells, leading to an excess of bilirubin in the blood. It can occur due to conditions such as hemolytic anemia or sickle cell anemia.
· Hepatic jaundice- This type of jaundice is caused by a problem in the liver that prevents it from processing bilirubin properly. It can occur due to conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or alcoholic liver disease.
· Post-hepatic jaundice- This type of jaundice is caused by a blockage in the bile ducts that prevents bile from flowing properly from the liver to the small intestine. It can occur due to conditions such as gallstones, tumors, or pancreatic cancer.
· Neonatal jaundice- It is common in newborn babies and is caused by an immature liver that is not yet able to process bilirubin efficiently. However, this type of jaundice typically resolves on its own without treatment within a few weeks.
Symptoms Of Jaundice
· Yellowing of the skin, whites of the eyes, and mucous membranes
· Dark urine
· Light-colored stools
· Fatigue
· Abdominal pain
· Nausea and vomiting
· Loss of appetite
· Fever
· Itching
· Muscle aches and joint pain.
(Source - Byju’s)
Treatment For Jaundice
The treatment for jaundice depends on the underlying cause of the condition. In general, treatment may involve addressing the underlying condition, managing symptoms, and supporting liver function. Here are some of the treatments for jaundice:
· Treating the underlying condition- If jaundice is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as hepatitis or liver disease, treating that condition is often the first step in managing jaundice. Treatment may involve medication, lifestyle changes, or in severe cases, surgery.
· Light therapy- In some cases, light therapy may be used to treat jaundice in newborns. This involves placing the baby under special lights that help to break down bilirubin in the skin.
· Medications- In some cases, medications may be used to help reduce bilirubin levels and manage symptoms of jaundice. For example, if jaundice is caused by an obstruction in the bile ducts, medication may be used to dissolve gallstones and improve bile flow.
· Lifestyle changes- Making certain lifestyle changes, such as avoiding alcohol, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular exercise, can help support liver function and reduce the risk of complications from jaundice.
· Hospitalization- In severe cases of jaundice, hospitalization may be necessary to manage complications and provide supportive care, such as intravenous fluids or blood transfusions.
Traditional Medicine Used To Cure Jaundice
· Milk thistle- Milk thistle is an herb that has been traditionally used to support liver function and is often used as a complementary treatment for liver diseases such as jaundice.
(Source - Frontiers)
· Turmeric- Turmeric is a spice that contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help support liver function.
· Chicory- Chicory is a plant that has been traditionally used as a natural remedy for liver problems. It is believed to stimulate the production of bile and promote liver detoxification.
· Indian gooseberry (amla)- Indian gooseberry is a fruit that has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to support liver health and treat jaundice.
· Papaya leaves- Papaya leaves have been traditionally used in some cultures to treat jaundice. They are believed to contain compounds that can help support liver function and reduce inflammation.
Written by Narayanamanikandan B
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