Everything You Need to Know About Jaundice

When making a contingency plan for your health as well as that of your family, one may think more about the diseases that are commonly considered critical, such as stroke, cardiovascular ailments, or even cancer. However, there are more common diseases that may affect one. Conditions like jaundice, if not detected on time and treated appropriately, can lead to more serious consequences. While you should work on taking the best care of yourself as well as your family, you may also like to prepare for adverse possibilities by getting the right health insurance policy. Recovering from jaundice is a gradual process that involves not only medical attention but also careful attention to one's diet. The right nutrition plays a pivotal role in restoring the health of an individual affected by jaundice.

What is Jaundice?

Jaundice is a medical condition characterised by the yellowing of the skin and eyes, resulting from an excess of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. When the liver is unable to process bilirubin efficiently, it accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to the distinctive yellow colouration associated with jaundice. Common symptoms of jaundice include yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark-coloured urine, pale stools, fatigue, and abdominal pain. Jaundice can be caused by various factors, including liver diseases, hepatitis, or obstruction of the bile duct. If you observe any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult your doctor immediately. You may also like to check with your health insurance policy provider or go through your policy document to understand what part of the treatment may be covered.

Causes of Jaundice

To understand what is jaundice, it’s when you notice a yellow tint in your skin or eyes. It's a sign that bilirubin, one by-product of red blood cells as they break down, starts accumulating in the body. Here's what might be happening:

1. Problems of the liver

Conditions such as hepatitis or cancer influence a person's ability to break down bilirubin because the liver becomes less effective.

2. Obstructions in the bile ducts

Due to stones in the gallbladder, for example, the bile ducts may get obstructed and stop the passing of bilirubin along its natural pathway.

Symptoms of Jaundice

The first step to knowing what is jaundice disease is knowing its symptoms. The most obvious indicator is a yellow tint to the skin and eyes, a signal that bilirubin levels in the body are higher than normal. This excess bilirubin also affects other bodily functions, turning urine dark. On the other hand, stools may appear paler if bilirubin fails to reach the intestines. Alongside these jaundice symptoms, individuals may experience itching due to high bilirubin levels, a symptom that is often less discussed. Jaundice can also reduce your energy, leaving you feeling unusually fatigued and weak. Many also report nausea and an upset stomach as frequent companions of jaundice, adding to the overall distress. Furthermore, the signs and symptoms of jaundice include a low-grade fever that can accompany the condition if an infection is present, and abdominal pain, particularly in the upper right side. Recognising these signs early is crucial as it paves the way for timely medical consultation, helping prevent more severe complications and ensuring the necessary care is promptly administered.

Diagnosis of Jaundice

Diagnosing jaundice is a meticulous process in which your doctor will guide you through a series of detailed tests. Every test aims at trying to reveal the underlying causes and how much the condition has presently affected your body. The diagnosis usually begins with blood tests that measure levels of bilirubin and look into the functions of the liver in an effort to form a preliminary understanding of what might be wrong. Further clarity often comes from imaging tests, such as ultrasounds or CT scans, which allow doctors to visually inspect the liver and surrounding structures for any abnormalities. In cases where more detailed investigation is necessary, a liver biopsy might be conducted. This involves removing a small sample of liver tissue to examine under a microscope, offering invaluable insights into the liver's condition. Additionally, urinalysis can play a crucial role in confirming jaundice by detecting elevated bilirubin levels in the urine. A complete blood count (CBC) is also routine, helping to identify any infections or blood disorders that might be contributing to the symptoms. Liver function tests further assess how effectively the liver is processing bilirubin, and hepatitis tests are conducted to exclude viral infections as a cause. Together, these diagnostics paint a comprehensive picture of the patient’s health status, guiding the treatment plan.

 Treatment Options for Jaundice

Addressing the disease and knowing how to treat jaundice effectively means getting to the bottom of what's causing it and tackling that root cause directly. Treatment strategies can vary widely based on the underlying condition leading to jaundice, from simple lifestyle adjustments to more complex medical interventions.

1. Medication

This might be needed to clear up liver infections or manage symptoms.

2. Surgery

If something like gallstones is blocking bile ducts, surgery can help.

3. Light therapy

For newborns, special light therapy helps break down bilirubin in their skin.

4. Dietary changes

Adjusting your diet can help manage symptoms and support liver health.

5. Alcohol abstinence

Reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption is crucial for liver health.

6. Vitamin supplements

Sometimes, specific vitamins and minerals might be prescribed to support liver function.

7. Liver transplant

In severe cases where the liver is extensively damaged, a transplant may be considered.

Complications of Jaundice

Ignoring signs of jaundice can lead to critical health problems, some of which might require immediate medical attention. It's crucial to monitor the condition and respond to any signs of worsening symptoms promptly.

1. Lasting liver damage

Jaundice can sometimes cause lasting harm to your liver.

2. Infections

Blocked bile ducts are prone to infections.

3. Anaemia

Too much red blood cell breakdown can lead to anaemia.

4. Brain damage

In severe cases, particularly in newborns, high bilirubin levels can lead to brain damage.

5. Kidney failure

Ongoing liver issues can eventually affect kidney function.

6 .Chronic liver disease

If not addressed, jaundice can evolve into chronic liver conditions, such as cirrhosis.

7. Gallstones

Persistent jaundice can lead to the development of gallstones, compounding the problem.

Prevention of Jaundice

Preventing jaundice involves taking proactive steps to maintain overall liver health and address any underlying conditions that could lead to the yellowing of the skin and eyes. Here are ways to minimise your risk and safeguard your liver's health.

1. Health check-ups

Regularly monitoring liver health through medical check-ups is crucial.

2. Limiting alcohol

Reducing alcohol intake helps protect liver function.

3. Healthy eating

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins supports liver health.

4. Vaccination

Protect yourself against hepatitis types that can cause liver damage and jaundice.

5. Avoiding toxins

Minimise exposure to environmental toxins and chemicals that can harm the liver.

6. Regular exercise

Maintaining a healthy weight through exercise can prevent liver disease.

7. Safe medication practices

Use medications responsibly, as some can be harmful to the liver.

Risk Factors for Jaundice

Understanding what increases the risk of developing jaundice can help you take preventive measures more effectively. Here are some significant risk factors:

1. Drinking a lot of alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for liver problems.

2. Chronic liver conditions

Conditions such as hepatitis and cirrhosis make jaundice more likely.

3. Genetic conditions

Certain inherited diseases like sickle cell anaemia or Gilbert's syndrome also increase the risk.

4. Obesity

Carrying excessive body weight can contribute to fatty liver disease, which can lead to jaundice.

5. Blood disorders

Diseases that disrupt the normal life cycle of red blood cells may lead to jaundice.

6. Bile duct obstruction

Blockages in the bile ducts, such as gallstones, can cause jaundice.

7. Medications

Some drugs can induce jaundice as a side effect, including those that affect liver function.

Diet Tips To Follow When Recovering From Jaundice

When recovering from jaundice, you may be advised to follow a few dietary restrictions and guidelines. Here are some of the common pieces of advice that you may find being offered.

Hydration is Key

Adequate hydration is crucial during jaundice recovery. Water helps flush out toxins from the body and supports the liver in its detoxification process. Drinking plenty of water, coconut water, and clear fluids is essential to stay well-hydrated.

Include High-Fibre Foods

A diet rich in fibre aids digestion and promotes a healthy gut. Incorporate whole grains, fruits, and vegetables into your meals. Fibre helps prevent constipation, a common issue during jaundice recovery.

Lean Proteins

Opt for lean sources of protein such as poultry, fish, eggs, and legumes. Protein is essential for tissue repair and recovery. However, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate protein intake based on individual health conditions.

Healthy Fats

Include sources of healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, and olive oil. These fats provide essential nutrients and support overall health.

Vitamins and Minerals

Consume foods rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants. Citrus fruits, leafy greens, and berries can be beneficial for their nutritional content.

Small, Frequent Meals

Rather than consuming large meals, opt for smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This helps in better digestion and absorption of nutrients.

Rest and Relaxation

In addition to dietary considerations, sufficient rest is crucial during the recovery phase. Listen to your body and allow it the time it needs to heal.

Foods To Avoid of Jaundice

There are some foods that you should not go back to immediately when recovering from jaundice. Here are some of the common foods you should avoid in such cases.

Fatty and Fried Foods

High-fat and fried foods can be taxing on the liver. Avoid fried snacks, processed foods, and items high in saturated fats.

Spicy Foods

Spices and overly spicy foods may irritate the digestive system. It's advisable to opt for milder flavours during the recovery period.

Alcohol

Alcohol can be detrimental to liver health. It is imperative to abstain from alcohol consumption during jaundice recovery.

Processed and Sugary Foods

Processed foods and those high in refined sugars should be limited. Opt for natural sweeteners like honey or fruits instead.

Caffeine

While moderate consumption of caffeine is generally acceptable, it's essential to monitor its impact on individual tolerance levels.

Raw Seafood

Raw or undercooked seafood poses a risk of bacterial contamination, which can be particularly harmful during jaundice recovery.

Conclusion

When recovering from jaundice, the emphasis should be on nourishing the body with the right balance of nutrients, aiding the liver in its healing process. As individuals focus on their health during the recovery period, it's also prudent to consider the importance of financial well-being. Getting a suitable health policy from a reputable general insurance provider is a critical aspect of ensuring that medical expenses are covered in case of unexpected health issues. You may use a  health insurance calculator   to understand the correlation between the coverage of the policy and the premium you may be required to pay.*   * Standard T&C Apply Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.