Is jaundice always serious?

Not always — some causes like Gilbert syndrome are benign. However, jaundice in adults always warrants evaluation as it can indicate serious liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or blood disorders.

Is jaundice in newborns dangerous?

Mild newborn jaundice is very common and usually resolves within 1–2 weeks. Very high bilirubin can cause kernicterus (brain damage), which is why newborn jaundice is closely monitored.

Can jaundice be prevented?

Prevention depends on preventing underlying causes: vaccinate against hepatitis A and B, limit alcohol, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid hepatotoxic substances.

DigestiveICD-10: R17

Jaundice

Also known as: Icterus, Yellow Skin, Hyperbilirubinemia

Jaundice is yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by elevated bilirubin in the blood. It is not a disease itself but a sign of an underlying condition affecting the liver, bile ducts, or red blood cells. In adults, jaundice always warrants medical evaluation.

At a Glance

Common symptoms: Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, Dark-colored urine, Pale or clay-colored stools
Main treatments: Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause, Gallstone removal for obstructive jaundice, Antiviral medications for hepatitis
Category: Digestive
See a doctor if: You notice yellowing of your skin or eyes

Symptoms

Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes

Dark-colored urine

Pale or clay-colored stools

Itching (pruritus), often severe

Fatigue and weakness

Abdominal pain in the upper right area

Nausea and vomiting

Causes

Pre-hepatic: excessive red blood cell breakdown (hemolytic anemia)
Hepatic: liver diseases (hepatitis, cirrhosis, alcoholic liver disease)
Post-hepatic: bile duct blockage from gallstones, tumors, or strictures
Medications and toxins that damage the liver
Gilbert syndrome (benign, inherited condition)

Risk Factors

Chronic liver disease or cirrhosis
Heavy alcohol consumption
Hepatitis B or C infection
Gallstones
Pancreatic or bile duct cancers
Hemolytic conditions (sickle cell disease, G6PD deficiency)

Diagnosis

Blood tests: bilirubin levels, liver function tests
CBC to assess for hemolytic anemia
Abdominal ultrasound for liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts
CT or MRCP for bile duct obstruction
Liver biopsy if cause remains unclear

Treatment

Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause
Gallstone removal for obstructive jaundice
Antiviral medications for hepatitis
Cessation of hepatotoxic medications or alcohol
Phototherapy for neonatal jaundice
Surgery for tumors causing bile duct obstruction

When to See a Doctor

You notice yellowing of your skin or eyes
Your urine becomes dark or stools become pale
Jaundice is accompanied by fever, abdominal pain, or weight loss
Itching is severe and widespread

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Hepatitis A

Infectious

Hepatitis B

Infectious

Gallstones

Digestive

Liver Cancer

Cancer

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