What causes yellowing of the whites of the eyes?
Apr 02, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
In general, yellowing of the whites of the eyes may be caused by individual differences, pinguecula, age-related macular degeneration, chronic hepatitis, diabetes, or other reasons. If any of these conditions cause discomfort, medical attention should be sought immediately to prevent worsening. In daily life, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, engaging in moderate exercise, and practicing proper eye usage are healthy lifestyle habits that promote eye health.
Under normal circumstances, yellowing of the whites of the eyes may be caused by individual differences, pinguecula, age-related macular degeneration, chronic hepatitis, diabetes, and other reasons. If any of these conditions cause discomfort, prompt medical attention is recommended to prevent worsening. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Individual differences: Physiological variations between individuals may lead to differences in the color of the sclera, including a yellowish appearance. This is usually a normal physiological phenomenon.
2. Pinguecula: Pinguecula is a skin pigmentation lesion typically presenting as brown spots or streaks on the eyelid. These areas of pigmentation may give the area around the eyes a yellowish appearance. Treatment may include surgical removal of the pinguecula under microscopic guidance, based on a doctor's recommendation.
3. Age-related macular degeneration: This is a common eye condition in older adults that causes damage to the macula and may present with yellowing of the whites of the eyes among its symptoms. Medical treatment such as laser therapy may be required.
4. Chronic hepatitis: Chronic hepatitis can lead to jaundice, a condition in which the skin and eyes turn yellow. This results from the liver's inability to properly process bilirubin, leading to its accumulation in the body. Treatment may include medications such as azathioprine tablets, bicyclol tablets, and anluohuaxian pills, as advised by a physician.
5. Diabetes: Patients with diabetes may develop jaundice, causing the white parts of the eyes to appear yellow. Jaundice in this case arises from liver dysfunction induced by high blood sugar levels. Treatment may involve medications such as acarbose capsules, insulin glargine injection, and insulin aspart injection, used under medical supervision.
In daily life, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, moderate physical activity, and proper eye usage are healthy lifestyle habits that contribute to good eye health.
