Ulcer Bleeding

Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. Normally, the liver processes and removes bilirubin, but when the liver fails to do so efficiently, jaundice occurs.

Causes of Jaundice

Jaundice can result from various underlying conditions, primarily related to the liver, gallbladder, or red blood cells. The main causes include:

1. Liver-Related Causes:

   • Hepatitis (Viral, Alcoholic, Autoimmune, Drug-Induced)
   • Liver Cirrhosis
   • Liver Failure
   • Liver Cancer

2. Gallbladder & Biliary Causes:

   • Gallstones blocking the bile duct
   • Cholangitis (bile duct infection)
   • Biliary Strictures (narrowing of bile ducts)
   • Pancreatic or Biliary Tract Tumors

3. Blood-Related Causes (Hemolytic Jaundice):

   • Excessive breakdown of red blood cells (Hemolysis)
   • Hemolytic Anemia
   • Malaria & Other Infections

Symptoms of Jaundice

• Yellowing of the skin, eyes, and nails
• Dark-colored urine (tea-colored)
• Pale or clay-colored stools
• Fatigue and weakness
• Nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Itchy skin (pruritus)
• Unexplained weight loss (in cases of liver disease or cancer)