What should I do if my face turns yellow due to hepatitis B?

Yellowing of the face in hepatitis B patients may be caused by excessive carotene levels, abnormal liver function, or impaired estrogen inactivation. Treatment options such as general supportive care or hepatoprotective and jaundice-relieving medications can be selected based on the underlying cause.

1. Excessive Carotene in the Body

If patients with hepatitis B frequently consume large amounts of foods rich in carotene—such as carrots, mangoes, and oranges—excess carotene may accumulate in the body. The liver may not metabolize it efficiently, leading to deposition in skin tissues and resulting in yellowish discoloration of the face. This condition typically does not require special treatment; reducing intake of these foods is generally recommended.

2. Abnormal Liver Function

Facial yellowing in hepatitis B patients may also result from impaired liver function, where liver cell necrosis prevents normal absorption and metabolism of bilirubin, causing elevated blood bilirubin levels and subsequent yellowing of the skin. Under medical guidance, hepatoprotective and jaundice-reducing drugs such as glycyrrhizin preparations or ursodeoxycholic acid capsules may be used.

3. Impaired Estrogen Inactivation

When patients with hepatitis B experience impaired inactivation of estrogen, excess melanin may accumulate, leading to dull, yellowish skin. Treatment may include intravenous hepatoprotective agents or interferon injections as directed by a physician.

In addition, facial yellowing in hepatitis B may be due to jaundice caused by active hepatitis B virus replication. Patients may also experience symptoms such as dark urine, liver area pain, and fever. Antiviral medications can be used for treatment.