What Causes Jaundice and When to See a Doctor

Jaundice is a medical condition that often indicates an underlying problem with the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas. Characterized by a yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes, jaundice occurs due to an excess of bilirubin—a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells—in the blood.

While it may seem like a minor concern, jaundice can be a sign of serious illness. Knowing its causes and when to seek medical attention is crucial, especially if you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms. If you are looking for the Best Hospital in Noida for expert diagnosis and treatment, Neo Hospital, a leading Super Speciality Hospital in Noida, offers comprehensive care for liver and gastrointestinal disorders.

What Is Bilirubin and Why Does It Build Up?

Bilirubin is produced during the normal process of recycling old red blood cells. It travels through the liver, where it is processed and excreted in bile. However, when this process is disrupted, bilirubin can accumulate in the bloodstream and result in jaundice.

Common Causes of Jaundice

Understanding the root causes of jaundice helps in timely diagnosis and treatment. The condition can be classified into three main types:

1. Pre-Hepatic Jaundice

This occurs before the liver processes bilirubin, usually due to excessive breakdown of red blood cells (hemolysis). Conditions like:

• Sickle cell anemia

• Malaria

• Thalassemia

• Autoimmune diseases

can cause this type of jaundice.

2. Hepatic Jaundice

This happens within the liver and is often caused by diseases or damage affecting liver cells. Common hepatic causes include:

• Hepatitis A, B, or C

• Alcoholic liver disease

• Fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

• Cirrhosis

• Liver cancer

• Drug-induced liver injury

3. Post-Hepatic Jaundice (Obstructive Jaundice)

This type occurs after the liver has processed bilirubin. The bile ducts may be blocked due to:

• Gallstones

• Tumors in the bile duct or pancreas

• Inflammation of the bile ducts

• Pancreatitis

In such cases, urgent care from a Super Speciality Hospital in Noida like Neo Hospital is recommended.

Symptoms That May Accompany Jaundice

In addition to yellowing of the skin and eyes, patients with jaundice may experience:

• Dark-colored urine

• Pale or clay-colored stools

• Fatigue and weakness

• Nausea or vomiting

• Abdominal pain (especially in the upper right side)

• Fever (if caused by infection)

• Itching of the skin

If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t ignore them. Visit the Best Hospital in Noida to consult a liver specialist for timely evaluation.

When to See a Doctor for Jaundice

While mild jaundice in newborns may resolve on its own, in adults and children it is usually a sign of a more serious condition. You should seek immediate medical attention if:

• Jaundice appears suddenly

• You experience intense abdominal pain or fever

• There is unexplained weight loss

• You feel extremely tired or weak

• Your skin itches excessively

• Jaundice is accompanied by vomiting or confusion

Ignoring symptoms can delay the diagnosis of critical conditions like liver failure, hepatitis, or cancer.

Diagnosis and Tests for Jaundice

At a reputable medical facility like Neo Hospital, diagnostic evaluation includes:

• Liver Function Tests (LFTs)

• Complete Blood Count (CBC)

• Ultrasound of the abdomen

• CT scan or MRI

• Hepatitis viral panel

• Endoscopic tests (in case of obstructive jaundice)

These help doctors pinpoint the exact cause and plan the best course of treatment.

Treatment Options for Jaundice

Treatment depends on the underlying cause. For example:

• Infections like hepatitis may require antiviral or supportive treatment.

• Gallstones might require surgical removal.

• Liver cirrhosis may be managed with medications and lifestyle changes.

• Tumors or cancers may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or other interventions.

Getting care from a Super Speciality Hospital in Noida ensures access to multi-disciplinary experts including hepatologists, gastroenterologists, surgeons, and oncologists under one roof.

Why Choose Neo Hospital for Jaundice Treatment?

Neo Hospital is recognized as one of the Best Hospitals in Noida for liver and gastrointestinal care. Here's why patients trust us:

• State-of-the-art diagnostic facilities

• Experienced team of specialists

• Advanced ICU and emergency care

• Minimally invasive surgical options

• Personalized patient care and follow-up

With early diagnosis and expert treatment, jaundice can often be completely resolved or well-managed.

Final Thoughts

Jaundice is more than just yellowing of the skin—it is your body signaling a potential internal problem. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Trust the experts at Neo Hospital, a leading super speciality hospital in noida, to provide accurate diagnosis, compassionate care, and cutting-edge treatment options.

If you or someone you know is showing signs of jaundice, book a consultation today at the Best Hospital in Noida — Neo Hospital.