Jaundice, commonly known as yellow fever, primarily affects infants and newborns. It occurs when there's an increase in bilirubin and bile pigment levels in the body, causing yellowing of the skin and eyes. This condition can occur at any age, and if it happens in adults, it can be more severe. Jaundice symptoms are noticeable and can be effectively treated. Excessive bilirubin secretion is termed hyperbilirubinemia.
Causes of High Bilirubin Levels in Blood
We can identify several reasons for the increase in bilirubin levels in the blood. Hemoglobin breakdown produces bilirubin and bile pigments. Improper liver function can lead to bilirubin buildup, which is caused by:
- Obstruction in bile flow—obstructive jaundice
- Liver cell infection, injury, to failure—hepatocellular jaundice
- Breakdown of red blood cells (RBCs)—hemolytic jaundice
The aforementioned conditions can result from various diseases, including liver disease, autoimmune hepatitis, drug-induced hepatitis, cirrhosis, malaria, hepatotoxicity, sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, spherocytosis, gallstones, and viral hepatitis,.
Symptoms of jaundice
Jaundice symptoms are easily diagnosed. It damages liver cells, causing yellow skin and eyes, headaches, confusion, yellow mucus, fever, chills, abdominal pain, tea-colored urine, white stools, itchy skin, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, weakened immune system, and swelling. Newborn symptoms include seizures, high-pitched crying, lethargy, muscle tone changes, and poor feeding. Symptoms progress from head to trunk, then to hands and limbs.
Is jaundice a contagious disease?
Jaundice is not contagious; it results from liver dysfunction and cannot spread from one person to another.
Treatment
Treatment for jaundice depends on its severity and underlying cause. Identifying the exact reason is crucial for effective treatment. If gallstones are the cause, treatment focuses on addressing both gallstones and jaundice. Medication is prescribed, and careful monitoring is essential. Hospitalization may be necessary in severe cases. Tests like liver function tests and a liver biopsy are performed to diagnose conditions like liver cancer or cirrhosis. Imaging tests such as MRI, CT scanning, and x-rays help in assessing the liver's condition. Surgery may be required to unblock the bile duct in cases of obstruction. Severe liver damage may necessitate a liver transplant. In genetic conditions like sickle cell anemia, blood transfusions are given to replenish red blood cells (RBCs).
Diet need to be followed
To recover from jaundice, it is recommended to follow a diet rich in high proteins, vitamin B, and vitamin C.
Start with a raw juice diet for 3–5 days. Consume fresh vegetables and fruits regularly, and drink juices like orange, grapes, lemons, sugarcane, pears, and carrots. Radishes and their leaves are particularly beneficial. For lunch, have steamed leafy greens such as spinach and fenugreek, along with whole wheat tortilla, buttermilk, and a raw vegetable salad. Dinner should include boiled, fresh vegetables like potatoes, along with a variety of juices. Drink a glass of skimmed milk mixed with two spoons of natural honey. Homemade and freshly cooked foods are beneficial. Stay hydrated with plenty of water and coconut water, to prevent dehydration. Drinking water helps remove toxins from the body and aids in the effective cure of jaundice. Strengthen your immune system by mixing one spoon of honey and half a a spoon of lime juice in a glass of water and consuming it.
Foods must be avoided
Avoid oily, fried, and greasy foods. Alcohol damages liver cells and causes complications. Avoid pickles, fatty foods, meats, clarified butter, and pulses. Eliminate caffeinated drinks like tea and coffee. Junk and processed fast foods should also be avoided until recovery. Choose easily digestible foods and ignore high-calorie foods that disrupt the digestive system.
Jaundice is less severe in children but dangerous in adults, leading to serious diseases. Proper treatment, taken in a timely manner, can cure it. Supplements and nutrition are essential for treatment, along with moderate exercise.