Yellow eyes can be a symptom of various conditions, often connected to liver dysfunction or other serious bodily interruptions. This article elucidates different causes behind the phenomenon of yellow eyes, to help readers better understand its seriousness and the potential medical intervention required.
One of the leading causes of yellow eyes is jaundice, a condition typically resulting from an excess of bilirubin in the body. Bilirubin is a yellow substance developed when red blood cells break down. Ordinarily, the liver manages to filter bilirubin from the bloodstream and uses it in bile production, which is subsequently excreted. Conditions like hepatitis caused by viral infections like A, B, or C, frequently result in liver inflammation, impairing this essential bodily function and leading to excess bilirubin.
Occasionally, apart from jaundice, a heightened level of bilirubin in the blood can contribute to yellow eyes. Conditions such as liver diseases, blocked bile ducts, hemolytic anemia, certain genetic disorders, or specific medication usage can lead to such elevated levels. Artificial tears can soothe related discomfort, and treatment varies greatly depending on the cause, generally involving medication modification, surgery, or even a liver transplant in severe situations.
Subconjunctival hemorrhage can also result in yellow eyes. This condition arises when blood leaks from vessels and fills the space between the conjunctiva and the sclera due to trauma, coughing, vomiting, or eye infections. Most instances resolve without the need for extra treatment.
An infection caused by bacteria, leptospirosis, may lead to jaundice and yellow eyes as one of its symptoms. Antibiotics are typically prescribed as a form of treatment for this infection.
Conditions such as Alcohol Use Disorder and pancreatitis often result in liver damage and jaundice, leading to yellow eyes. Both conditions require lifestyle changes for management. For Alcohol Use Disorder, therapeutic intervention may be necessary for recovery.
Hemolytic Anemia, where the body destroys red blood cells too quickly, thus leading to bilirubin build-up, is also a contributing factor. Depending on the severity of the anemia, treatment may include corticosteroids, blood transfusions, or other medications.
Yellow discharge from the eyes, often indicative of an infection such as conjunctivitis, results from a combination of dead white blood cells, viruses or bacteria, and tears. Symptoms alongside yellow discharge can range from clear discharge and irritation to red eyes, pain, swollen eyelids, and light sensitivity. Viral, bacterial, or allergic eye infections can trigger these symptoms, with only viral and bacterial infections being contagious.
In conclusion, the yellowing of the eye, whether in the form of sclera yellowing or eye discharge, can indicate a variety of medical conditions, several of which need urgent medical attention or significant lifestyle changes. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider when symptoms are noted, to not only ensure prompt and effective treatment but to also avoid long-term complications.
