Liver Disease (Jaundice)

Symptoms

• As well as the classic yellow tinge to the skin and whites of the eyes, someone with jaundice may also have yellowing of mucous membranes in the mouth and nose.
• Stools can be pale in color and urine dark in color.
• Some underlying conditions, which lead to jaundice, may feel like flu, and may also result in fever, chills, stomach pain, itching or weight-loss or be without an explanation such as a diet.

Treatments

Treatment depends on the cause of the underlying condition leading to jaundice and any potential complications related to it. Once a diagnosis is made, treatment can then be directed to address that particular condition. If you have signs of jaundice, seek medical advice.

• Treatment may consist of expectant management (watchful waiting) at home with rest.
• Medical treatment with intravenous fluids, medications, antibiotics or blood transfusions may be required.
• If a drug/toxin is the cause, these must be discontinued.
• In certain cases of newborn jaundice, exposing the baby to special colored lights (phototherapy) or exchange blood transfusions may be required to decrease elevated bilirubin levels.
• Surgical treatment may be required.