Doctors Near You for Yellow Eyes in Effingham

Yellow eyes, a condition known as jaundice, occur when the whites of the eyes (sclera) develop a yellowish tint. This discoloration results from an excess of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. Bilirubin is normally processed by the liver and excreted in bile, but when this process is disrupted, bilirubin accumulates in the bloodstream and deposits in tissues, including the sclera. The causes of jaundice can vary widely. Liver conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer can impair the liver's ability to process bilirubin. Blockages in the bile ducts, such as those caused by gallstones or tumors, can also lead to jaundice by preventing bilirubin from being properly excreted. Hematological conditions, including hemolytic anemia, can increase the breakdown of red blood cells and overwhelm the liver's capacity to process bilirubin. Additionally, newborns may experience jaundice due to the immaturity of their liver function, which is often resolved as the liver matures. Treatment for yellow eyes focuses on addressing the underlying cause of jaundice. For liver diseases, treatment may involve medications, lifestyle changes, or surgical interventions to manage the condition and improve liver function. If the cause is a bile duct obstruction, procedures to remove blockages or relieve the obstruction, such as endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) or surgery, may be required. Hematological conditions causing jaundice may be treated with medications or blood transfusions, depending on the specific disorder. For newborns with jaundice, phototherapy, which involves exposing the baby to special light to help break down bilirubin, is commonly used. Consulting a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and diagnosis is crucial to determine the appropriate treatment and manage jaundice effectively.