What causes yellow eyes

What causes yellow eyes: An Overview

1. Liver Disease: One of the most common causes of yellow eyes is liver disease. When the liver is damaged or not functioning properly, it is unable to filter bilirubin from the blood, which can lead to a buildup of the pigment and cause yellowing of the eyes and skin. Some of the most common liver diseases that can cause yellow eyes include hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

2. Gallbladder Disease: Another common cause of yellow eyes is gallbladder disease. The gallbladder is responsible for storing and releasing bile, which helps to digest fats in the small intestine. When the gallbladder is not functioning properly, it can cause a buildup of bilirubin in the blood, which can lead to yellowing of the eyes and skin. Some of the most common gallbladder diseases that can cause yellow eyes include gallstones and cholecystitis.

3. Blood Disorders: In some cases, yellow eyes may be caused by a blood disorder. Blood disorders such as sickle cell anemia or thalassemia can cause the breakdown of red blood cells, which can lead to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. This can cause yellowing of the eyes and skin, as well as other symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

4. Medications: Certain medications can also cause yellowing of the eyes and skin. For example, acetaminophen, which is commonly used to treat pain and fever, can cause liver damage if taken in large doses. This can lead to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood and cause yellowing of the eyes and skin. Other medications that can cause yellowing of the eyes include antibiotics, such as rifampin and sulfonamides, and chemotherapy drugs.

5. Infections: In some cases, yellow eyes may be caused by an infection. For example, hepatitis A, B, and C are viral infections that can cause inflammation of the liver and lead to yellowing of the eyes and skin. Other infections that can cause yellowing of the eyes include malaria, leptospirosis, and Q fever.

6. Genetics: Finally, some people may be more prone to developing yellow eyes due to their genetics. For example, some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing liver disease or gallbladder disease, which can lead to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood and cause yellowing of the eyes and skin. Additionally, some people may have a genetic condition called Gilbert’s syndrome, which causes a mild increase in bilirubin levels and can lead to yellowing of the eyes and skin.

7. Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can also cause yellowing of the eyes and skin. This is because alcohol can damage the liver, which is responsible for filtering bilirubin from the blood. When the liver is damaged, it may not be able to filter bilirubin properly, which can lead to a buildup of the pigment and cause yellowing of the eyes and skin.

8. Pregnancy: Yellowing of the eyes can also occur during pregnancy. This is known as obstetric cholestasis and is caused by a buildup of bile acids in the blood. This can lead to itching, yellowing of the skin and eyes, and other symptoms. Obstetric cholestasis usually occurs in the third trimester of pregnancy and can be managed with medication and close monitoring.

9. Age: Finally, yellowing of the eyes can be a natural part of the aging process. As we age, our liver may not function as well as it used to, which can lead to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood and cause yellowing of the eyes and skin. Additionally, older adults may be more likely to develop liver disease or gallbladder disease, which can also cause yellowing of the eyes.

10. Poor Nutrition: Poor nutrition can also contribute to yellowing of the eyes and skin. For example, a diet that is high in fat and low in fiber can lead to gallbladder disease, which can cause a buildup of bilirubin in the blood and cause yellowing of the eyes. Additionally, a diet that is low in protein can lead to liver damage, which can also cause yellowing of the eyes and skin.

11. Environmental Toxins: Exposure to certain environmental toxins can also cause yellowing of the eyes and skin. For example, exposure to pesticides, industrial chemicals, and other toxins can damage the liver and lead to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. This can cause yellowing of the eyes and skin, as well as other symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain.

12. Autoimmune Disorders: Finally, yellowing of the eyes can be caused by autoimmune disorders. Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system attacks healthy cells in the body, leading to inflammation and damage. In some cases, autoimmune disorders can cause liver damage, which can lead to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood and cause yellowing of the eyes and skin. Some autoimmune disorders that can cause yellow eyes include autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cholangitis.

13. Cancer: In rare cases, yellowing of the eyes can be caused by cancer. For example, pancreatic cancer can cause a buildup of bilirubin in the blood, which can lead to yellowing of the eyes and skin. Other types of cancer that can cause yellow eyes include liver cancer and bile duct cancer.

14. Trauma: Trauma to the liver or gallbladder can also cause yellowing of the eyes and skin. For example, a blow to the abdomen or a car accident can cause damage to the liver or gallbladder, which can lead to a buildup of bilirubin in the blood and cause yellowing of the eyes.

15. Inherited Disorders: Finally, yellowing of the eyes can be caused by inherited disorders. For example, Crigler-Najjar syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that causes a buildup of bilirubin in the blood and can lead to yellowing of the eyes and skin. Other inherited disorders that can cause yellow eyes include Dubin-Johnson syndrome and Rotor syndrome.

In summary, yellow eyes, also known as jaundice, is a condition that occurs when there is a buildup of bilirubin in the blood. There are many different factors that can cause yellow eyes, including liver disease, gallbladder disease, blood disorders, medications, infections, genetics, alcohol, pregnancy, age, poor nutrition, environmental toxins, autoimmune disorders, cancer, trauma, and inherited disorders. If you are experiencing yellowing of the eyes or skin, it is important to see a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Depending on the cause of your yellow eyes, treatment may involve medications, lifestyle changes, or surgery. With proper treatment, most people are able to recover from yellow eyes and return to good health.