Jaundice in Hepatitis Patients: Understanding the Cause of Yellow Eyes

One of the most noticeable symptoms in hepatitis patients is the yellowing of the whites of the eyes, known as conjunctival icterus. This occurs due to elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood, a condition commonly referred to as hyperbilirubinemia.

When liver cells are damaged due to hepatitis, their ability to process bilirubin is significantly reduced. The liver's impaired function leads to a buildup of indirect bilirubin in the bloodstream, as it cannot be effectively converted into direct bilirubin. Additionally, damage to the bile capillaries prevents the excretion of already-converted direct bilirubin, causing it to accumulate in the blood as well.

As a result, both types of bilirubin increase in the bloodstream, leading to visible symptoms such as yellowing of the skin and eyes, as well as darker urine. High bilirubin levels are a strong indicator of liver damage, so identifying and treating the underlying cause is essential.

Treatment strategies depend on the specific cause of the elevated bilirubin. If viral hepatitis is diagnosed and meets the criteria for antiviral therapy, standard treatment protocols should be followed. In cases of obstructive jaundice, maintaining bile duct patency becomes a priority. For conditions like gallstones or bile duct stones, surgical intervention may be necessary to restore normal bile flow.

Addressing the root cause is key to managing bilirubin levels effectively. In most cases, once the underlying issue is resolved, bilirubin levels tend to drop rapidly. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment are crucial in improving outcomes for hepatitis patients with jaundice.