What is yellowing of the skin and eyes?
Yellowing of the eyes and skin is a disorder that occurs when the whites around the eyes, as well as the skin, change from their healthy hue to a yellowish color. In adults, the source might be due to liver disease, biliary dysfunction, or cholecystitis (redness and swelling of the gallbladder). It is a consequence of high degrees of bilirubin (the red-orange substance created throughout the breakdown of red cells) within the blood. This condition is also widely seen in infants when the liver function is limited and it can’t remove enough bilirubin. At Gastroenterology Associates of Florida, our experts can help determine what might be causing this symptom. To get further details on what induces yellow coloring of the skin and eyes and why it arises, schedule a consultation with our Florida gastroenterologists today.
What leads to yellow skin and eyes?
While this symptom is often an indicator of a disorder in the liver, it might also signal an inherited blood ailment called thalassemia, in which the body produces an irregular type of hemoglobin. Yellow-colored eyes and skin may further be a symptom of the below-listed GI health issues:
- Gallstones
- Liver cancer
- Cirrhosis
- Cancer of the pancreas
- Hepatitis D, Hepatitis A
- Blocked bile ducts
- Sickle cell disease
- Infection
- Acute inflammation of the pancreas
- Alcohol-related liver conditions
- Hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and hepatitis E
When yellow color in the eyes and skin is the result of an infection, individuals might also have a fever, chills, abdominal aches, flu-like signs, brown urine, and pale stool. If it is established that the yellowing is not due to an infection, individuals may experience weight reduction or skin that feels uncomfortable (pruritus). A GI specialist can detect the root cause of this symptom and render the right intervention needed to alleviate yellowing of the eyes or skin in Florida patients.
How is yellowing of the eyes and skin treated?
When the skin and eyes take on a yellow color, it is typically a symptom of an ongoing medical problem. It may signal a sign of an issue in the pancreas, liver, or gallbladder. You should look for assistance for this issue as soon as it is discovered. It is vital to get immediate treatment so the correct therapy may be administered. The treatment for yellowish eyes and skin will differ according to the underlying source. For example, when an individual has acute viral hepatitis, the yellowish shade will subside on its own when the liver begins to improve. On the other hand, when a clogged bile duct is to blame, a surgical procedure might be recommended. To find out additional information about the signs and solutions for yellow-colored eyes and skin, we encourage you to talk to a gastroenterologist at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida. Our doctors will guide you through available treatments and advise what would benefit you.
Seek qualified help for your GI health
If you have noticed a yellow coloring in your eyes or skin, you need to make sure to have the issue addressed as soon as you’re able. It is usually a sign of an underlying health issue that requires an examination. Contact the skilled digestive health providers at Gastroenterology Associates of Florida to request a consultation. Our experts are pleased to offer treatment for yellowing of the skin and eyes in Florida and can help make certain you find the appropriate therapy.
