Hospitals' Jaundice Treatment Methods For Adults

Jaundice is a condition characterised by yellowing of the skin and eyes, caused by a build-up of bilirubin in the blood. It is often a symptom of another condition, such as hepatitis, gallstones, or tumours. Jaundice in adults is rare and usually goes away on its own, but can sometimes require treatment. Treatment for jaundice in adults focuses on diagnosing and treating the underlying cause. This may involve surgical procedures to treat blocked bile flow, or medication to treat conditions such as hepatitis. In severe cases, hospital treatment may be required, and in cases of complete liver failure, a liver transplant may be necessary.

Diagnosing the root cause

Jaundice in adults is a rare condition characterised by yellowing skin and eyes, which occurs when there is a build-up of bilirubin in the blood. This build-up is caused by the liver's inability to process the substance, which can be due to several factors. Therefore, diagnosing the root cause of jaundice is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment.

Healthcare providers employ various methods to identify the underlying cause of jaundice. One common approach is to measure bilirubin levels in the blood, which can indicate whether the jaundice is related to red blood cell breakdown (unconjugated) or liver injury (conjugated). This distinction helps in understanding the primary source of the issue.

Additionally, doctors may check for other signs of liver disease, such as bleeding of the skin, palmar erythema (red palms and fingertips), and spider angiomas (abnormal collections of blood vessels near the skin's surface). Imaging techniques like ultrasound and CT scans can also be utilised to examine the liver's size and tenderness, while a liver biopsy, which involves taking a tissue sample, can provide valuable insights into the specific cause of liver injury.

In some cases, gastroenterologists may perform a physical exam to check for liver disease or damage. They might also recommend blood tests and urinalysis to assess complete blood count (CBC) and bilirubin levels. These diagnostic tests aid in identifying the root cause of jaundice, which is crucial for determining the most effective treatment approach.

It is important to note that jaundice in adults can be a sign of various underlying conditions, including hepatitis, gallstones, tumours, and liver diseases such as cirrhosis or fatty liver disease. Therefore, a comprehensive evaluation is necessary to tailor the treatment plan accordingly.

Surgical procedures

Surgical treatment for jaundice caused by blocked bile ducts may involve surgery to open the blocked duct. This procedure is often necessary when jaundice is caused by gallstones or tumours. In some cases, surgery may be required to remove the gallbladder. Additionally, if jaundice is caused by a tumour or other obstruction blocking the bile duct, surgery may be performed to remove the obstruction.

In cases where jaundice is a symptom of advanced liver failure, a liver transplant may be necessary. However, this is a rare occurrence. It is important to note that jaundice in adults is typically not life-threatening, and surgery is usually not the first line of treatment.

Medication

Jaundice in adults is characterized by yellowing skin, eyes, mucous membranes, and body fluids. It is caused by excessive bilirubin in the blood, which is produced when red blood cells break down. While jaundice in adults is rare, it can indicate an underlying condition, such as liver disease, hepatitis, gallstones, or tumours. Treatment for jaundice focuses on addressing the root cause, which varies depending on the individual case.

Jaundice itself is often not treated directly, but healthcare providers will treat the underlying condition causing it. If jaundice is caused by hepatitis, medications can be prescribed to address this condition. For instance, if jaundice results in itchy skin, doctors may prescribe antihistamines or cholestyramine to be taken orally to remove bile acids from the body. Additionally, if jaundice is caused by acute viral hepatitis, it may resolve on its own as the liver heals.

In cases where jaundice is related to bile duct blockages caused by gallstones or tumours, medication may be prescribed alongside weight control and a healthy diet. However, surgery may also be required to address these blockages.

It is important to note that jaundice can sometimes resolve without treatment, but it is crucial to seek medical attention if you suspect you have jaundice or are experiencing symptoms such as fever, confusion, or intense abdominal pain.

Phototherapy

To increase the effectiveness of phototherapy, the surface area of the skin exposed to the light can be maximised. This can be done by using an overhead phototherapy unit in combination with a bili blanket, which can be placed under the patient. The effectiveness of the treatment also depends on the distance between the lamps and the patient, with closer distances leading to more intensive treatment.

Lifestyle changes

Jaundice in adults is indicated by a yellowing of the skin, the whites of the eyes, and mucous membranes (like the inside of the nose and mouth). It is caused by a build-up of a substance called bilirubin in the blood, which occurs when the liver is unable to process it. This can be due to either excessive red blood cell breakdown or liver injury.

• Avoid herbal supplements unless recommended by your doctor, as these can be toxic to the liver.
• Limit alcohol consumption. Alcoholic liver disease can lead to jaundice, with two particular diseases, alcoholic hepatitis and alcoholic cirrhosis, harming the liver.
• Reduce your risk of hepatitis by avoiding exposure to potential causes such as certain viruses, autoimmune disorders, drugs, and chemicals.
• If you are experiencing itching, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines or cholestyramine, which is taken orally to remove bile acids from the body.
• If you are experiencing fever, confusion, and intense abdominal pain, seek immediate medical attention.

Frequently asked questions