Causes and Treatment of Jaundice

A medical condition where in too much bilirubin circulates in the blood is referred to as jaundice. The eyes, skin and the mucus membrane is turned yellowish in color because of the excess bilirubin secretion. Jaundice is common and gets cured automatically in newborns. However in the case of adults it can lead to liver failure when left untreated.

Jaundice can be caused by several factors namely cirrhosis, pancreatic cancer, an obstruction of the bile duct due to gallstone or tumor, inadequate blood flow to the liver, Congenital disorders involving bilirubin  and malaria.

The symptoms of jaundice include itching, nausea, abdominal pain, light colored stool, yellow discoloring of the skin, whites of eyes and mucus membranes and dark urine.

The doctor diagnoses jaundice based on a physical examination and observation. You may also have to undergo some tests to be diagnosed with this condition.

Treatment of jaundice depends on the cause because jaundice is not a specific disorder but only a symptom. The infection can be treated or the doctor may suggest removal of tumor, gall stones or a liver transplant in case the liver is severely damaged. Jaundice may be a permanent or a recurring problem if the patient is affected by cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis.

For getting relief from jaundice, the doctor may also suggest proper dietary changes. The intake of carbohydrates has to be increased while that of protein intake must be reduced. Frequent small meals are better than one large meal. A well balanced nutritious diet will help to overcome the problem. Obstruction in the bile duct can lead to serious cases of jaundice which will take a long time to get better. You must take a lot of rest and consume plenty of juices. The juices of grapes, orange, sugarcane and pear are very useful. There must be proper bowel movements. Until the severe symptoms subside you must continue with the juice fast.