Color changes occurring in the sclera (white part of the eye) are usually a sign of a systemic problem. Jaundice in the eye, called "icterus" in the medical literature, is a symptom that occurs with increased bilirubin levels in the blood and should be taken seriously.
What Causes Jaundice in the Eye?
The main cause of eye jaundice is the excessive accumulation of "bilirubin" in the blood, which occurs as a result of the breakdown of red blood cells that carry oxygen in the body. This yellow pigment, which must be processed by the liver and eliminated from the body under normal conditions, leaks into the tissues when the liver cannot function or the bile ducts are blocked. Since the white part of the eye is very prone to retain this pigment, the first symptoms are usually seen there.
The most common culprit of jaundice is liver dysfunction. Hepatitis viruses (A, B, C), liver damage due to excessive alcohol consumption or fatty liver reduce the organ's filtering ability. Additionally, obstruction of the bile duct by gallstones or tumors may also cause jaundice in the eye.
What Diseases Is Jaundice in the White of the Eye a Sign of?
Jaundice in the white of the eye; It may be a sign of genetic conditions such as liver diseases, pancreatic cancer, hemolytic anemia and Gilbert Syndrome. In hemolytic anemia, the body begins to destroy red blood cells faster than its production rate, the liver cannot cope with this excessive bilirubin load, and the whites of the eyes turn yellow. Gilbert Syndrome is a common but generally harmless genetic condition that causes temporary yellowing in situations such as stress or hunger.
Jaundice Inside the Eye: Pterygium and Pinguecula
Sometimes patients do not complain about yellowing of the entire eye, but only yellow spots in a certain area. This condition is generally benign growths that occur in the conjunctiva layer as a result of exposure to sunlight, dust and wind. Pinguecula (eye oil gland) or Pterygium (bird wing) should not be confused with systemic jaundice.
How to cure jaundice in eyes?
Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause. If the problem is caused by hepatitis, antiviral drugs and rest are applied, if it is caused by gallstones, surgical intervention is applied, and if it is caused by anemia, treatments to regulate blood values are applied. To support the treatment process, it is important to stop alcohol consumption, avoid fatty and processed foods, and consume plenty of water.
When to Consult a Doctor?
If yellowing of the eyes begins suddenly and is accompanied by abdominal pain, fever, weakness or itching, an internal medicine or gastroenterology specialist should be consulted without delay. Especially darkening of the urine color and lightening of the stool color are strong symptoms of bile duct obstruction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is jaundice in the eye dangerous?
Eye jaundice is a systemic alarm that should not be ignored. It may be a sign of liver, gallbladder or blood diseases. Early diagnosis is vital.
Does jaundice in the eyes go away on its own?
Jaundice is not a disease in itself, but a consequence. The underlying cause does not go away without treatment; Using cosmetic drops does not solve the problem, on the contrary, it delays the diagnosis.
Is a yellow spot on the eye a sign of jaundice?
Not every yellow spot is jaundice. Local growths called pinguecula or pterygium can also cause yellow spots and should not be confused with systemic jaundice.
