Ace gastro: Jaundice – Causes, Symptoms, and Diet Management!

 

Jaundice is a condition that causes yellowing of the skin, nails, and the whites of the eyes. It's caused by an excess of bilirubin, which is a yellowish pigment that results from the breakdown of red blood cells. The condition is common in newborns because their livers are not developed enough to rapidly clear the bilirubin from their organs. In adults, jaundice is often caused by liver diseases, such as cirrhosis or hepatitis. Additional causes include medcations, cancer, or blood disorders that cause an excess of red blood cells to break down.

In newborns, jaundice can usually be managed with phototherapy, which is a form of light therapy aided by blue-blocking filters. For adults and older children, jaundice can be managed depending on its cause. In some cases, a change in diet or lifestyle may be required. In more serious cases, medications, treatments, or surgery may be recommended.  It is important to seek medical attention if you or your child have symptoms of jaundice.

Symptoms of Jaundice:

The common symptoms that a person experiences with jaundice are as follows:

1. Yellowing of the Skin and Eyes:

The most visible symptom of jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and eyes. This happens when a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment in the bloodstream, makes its way to the skin, giving the appearance of a yellow-ish hue.

2. Itching:

Another common symptom of jaundice is itching. It is not an intense itching like an allergic reaction, but more of an uncomfortable sensation similar to sunburn.

3. Dark Urine:

Urine that is darker in color than usual can be a sign of jaundice. This is because the breakdown of red blood cells causes the release of a yellow-colored substance into the urine, giving it a darker appearance.

4. Pale Stools:

When you experience jaundice, your stool may become pale in color. This is because the breakdown of red blood cells in the small intestine causes the release of a yellow-colored substance into the large intestine, giving it a grayish tinge.

5. Loss of Appetite:

If you suffer from jaundice, you may find that you experience a decrease in appetite. This is due to the fact that jaundice slows down the functioning of the digestive system, making it difficult to digest food.

6. Fatigue:

Fatigue is another common symptom of jaundice. This is because your body is working hard to clear out the build-up of bilirubin in your bloodstream, which can be draining.

7. Nausea and Vomiting:

Nausea and vomiting can be another sign of jaundice. This is because when the body experiences a build-up of bilirubin, it can cause a stomach upset that leads to nausea and in some cases, vomiting.

Causes of Jaundice:

There are many causes behind jaundice and few of them are as follows:

1. Viral Hepatitis:

This type of jaundice is caused by infection with hepatitis A, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C viruses, which affect the liver and cause an increase in the production and buildup of bilirubin in the blood.

2. Obstruction of the Bile Ducts:

If a gallstone, tumor, or other blockage prevents bile from draining correctly from the liver and gallbladder, it can cause jaundice.

3. Abnormally High Red Blood Cell Count:

Hemolytic anemia occurs when a person's red blood cells are destroyed at an abnormally rapid rate, which in turn causes high bilirubin levels in the body.

4. Liver Disease:

Conditions such as cirrhosis and hepatitis can lead to an increased production of bilirubin and jaundice.

5. Drug-Induced Jaundice:

It is possible that some medications can cause jaundice. This could include chemotherapy drugs, anti-seizure medications, certain antibiotics, or certain anti-inflammatory drugs.

Diet Management with jaundice:

There are certain diet management tips that an individual needs to keep in mind and these are as follows:

1. Eat a balanced, nutritious diet:

Eating a balanced diet is essential for managing jaundice. Ensure that you include foods from all food groups in adequate quantities. This includes carbohydrates, proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fat.

2. Hydrate yourself:

Drink plenty of fluids such as water, coconut water, buttermilk, lemon water and soup. This will help flush the toxins from your body, aiding the digestion process. Avoid caffeine beverages.

3. Include iron-rich foods:

Iron deficiency is common in people with jaundice, so it is important to include iron-rich foods in your diet. This includes dark green leafy vegetables, whole grains, lentils and beans, nuts, and red meat.

4. Include foods with high Vitamin A content:

Vitamin A is an important nutrient that helps the liver regenerate new normal cells. Foods with high Vitamin A content include yellow and orange-colored fruits and vegetables, eggs, and animal sources such as organ meats.

5. Eat small, frequent meals:

Eating small, frequent meals helps in faster digestion and nutrient absorption, thereby preventing the accumulation of toxins in the body.

6. Avoid processed and deep fried foods:

These foods contain unhealthy fats which can affect digestion and interfere with the functioning of the liver.

7. Add spices to your dishes:

Including spices such as ginger and turmeric help stimulate the digestive system and the process of breaking down fat in the body.

8. Limit your alcohol consumption:

Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages should be avoided as it can be damaging to the liver.

9. Avoid exercising:

Although exercising is important for overall health, it should be avoided when dealing with jaundice. Exercising increases metabolism which can cause inflammation, making it harder for the body to heal.

Reach Dr. Sushil Kumar Jain for jaundice treatment!

Dr. Sushil Kumar Jain is an expert in the field of jaundice treatment. He has years of experience in this area and has successfully treated numerous cases of jaundice. He is renowned for his expertise in treating all types of jaundice. Also. he is proficient in medical diagnostics and health evaluation, as well as providing comprehensive care for the entire body. Dr. Sushil Kumar Jain Gastrology Doctor in Jaipur

FAQ:

1. What tests are used to diagnose jaundice?

Answer: Diagnosis of jaundice typically involves a physical examination and blood tests, such as serum bilirubin, Liver Function Tests (LFTs), hepatitis panel, and albumin and protein levels.

2. What are the treatment options for jaundice?

Answer: Treatment options for jaundice vary depending on the underlying cause. Some options may include medication, phototherapy, and in certain cases, surgery or other medical interventions.

3. Are there any lifestyle changes that can help manage jaundice?

Answer: Yes, there may be some lifestyle changes that can help with jaundice management. These may include avoiding alcohol and drugs, getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, and avoiding activities that may cause exhaustion.

4. When should a person seek medical advice regarding jaundice?

Answer: Anytime a person notices a yellow tint to their skin, eyes, or nails they should seek medical advice. Also, any other signs and symptoms of jaundice should also receive medical attention.

5. What are the possible long term complications of jaundice?

Answer: In some cases, long-term complications of jaundice can include anemia, kidney damage, liver cirrhosis, pancreatitis, and gallstones. If a person is experiencing any of these symptoms, they should contact their doctor for further evaluation and treatment.