Jaundice (पीलिया): Causes, Clinical Significance, and Modern Treatment Approaches

By Dr. Karan R. Rawat, Gastroenterologist & Hepatology-Focused Gastrointestinal Surgeon, Agra

Introduction

Jaundice, medically referred to as icterus, is not a disease by itself but a clinical sign indicating an underlying disorder—most commonly related to the liver, bile ducts, or red blood cells. It is characterized by yellow discoloration of the eyes, skin, and urine due to elevated levels of bilirubin in the blood.

In regions like Agra and surrounding districts, jaundice remains a frequent clinical presentation due to infections, gall stone disease, alcohol-related liver disorders, and viral hepatitis.

What Is Jaundice?

Bilirubin is a yellow pigment formed from the breakdown of red blood cells. Under normal conditions, the liver processes bilirubin and excretes it through bile. Jaundice develops when this process is disrupted at any level.

Types and Causes of Jaundice

Jaundice is broadly classified based on the site of the problem:

1. Pre-Hepatic Jaundice

Caused by excessive breakdown of red blood cells.

Common causes:

  • Hemolytic anemia

  • Malaria

  • Thalassemia

  • Blood transfusion reactions

2. Hepatic Jaundice

Occurs due to liver cell damage.

Common causes:

  • Viral hepatitis (A, B, C, E)

  • Alcoholic liver disease

  • Fatty liver disease

  • Drug-induced liver injury

  • Cirrhosis

3. Post-Hepatic (Obstructive) Jaundice

Occurs due to blockage in bile flow.

Common causes:

  • Gall bladder stones

  • Common bile duct (CBD) stones

  • Bile duct strictures

  • Pancreatic or biliary tumors

Symptoms of Jaundice

  • Yellow discoloration of eyes and skin

  • Dark yellow or tea-colored urine

  • Pale or clay-colored stools

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Loss of appetite

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Itching (especially in obstructive jaundice)

When Is Jaundice Dangerous?

⚠️ Immediate medical attention is required if jaundice is associated with:

  • Fever and abdominal pain

  • Persistent vomiting

  • Altered consciousness

  • Severe itching

  • Rapid worsening of symptoms

Diagnostic Evaluation

Accurate diagnosis is essential to identify the cause.

Investigations Include:

  • Liver function tests (bilirubin, SGOT, SGPT, ALP)

  • Complete blood count

  • Viral markers (Hepatitis A, B, C, E)

  • Ultrasound abdomen

  • MRCP / CT scan (if obstruction suspected)

Treatment of Jaundice

Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause.

Medical Management

  • Supportive care (rest, hydration)

  • Antiviral therapy (for hepatitis B/C)

  • Avoidance of alcohol and hepatotoxic drugs

  • Nutritional support

Endoscopic and Surgical Management

  • ERCP for bile duct stones or strictures

  • Laparoscopic surgery for gall bladder disease

  • Management of tumors or advanced liver disease

Diet and Lifestyle During Jaundice

  • Low-fat, easily digestible diet

  • Adequate hydration

  • Avoid alcohol completely

  • No self-medication

  • Follow medical advice strictly

Why Early Treatment Matters

Delayed diagnosis can lead to:

  • Acute liver failure

  • Chronic liver disease

  • Severe infections

  • Increased mortality

Why Consult Dr. Karan R. Rawat in Agra

  • Expertise in gastroenterology and hepatobiliary surgery

  • Integrated medical and surgical care

  • Advanced diagnostic facilities

  • Experience in managing complex jaundice cases

  • Trusted referral specialist in Agra and nearby regions

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is jaundice contagious?
Only viral hepatitis-related jaundice can be contagious.

Q. Can jaundice be treated at home?
No. Home remedies delay diagnosis and may worsen the condition.

Q. Does jaundice always mean liver disease?
No. It may also occur due to blood disorders or bile duct obstruction.

Conclusion

Jaundice is a warning sign that should never be ignored. Early evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and cause-specific treatment ensure complete recovery in most cases.

“Treating jaundice is not about lowering bilirubin alone—it is about identifying and correcting the root cause.”
— Dr. Karan R. Rawat

Author

Dr. Karan R. Rawat
Gastroenterologist & Gastrointestinal Surgeon
Safe Gastro & Surgery Center, Agra