What are the causes of yellowing of the whites of the eyes?

Yellowing of the whites of the eyes may be caused by aging, pinguecula, conjunctivitis, pterygium, hepatitis, or other reasons. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Aging

With advancing age, small amounts of fat may accumulate and deposit beneath the bulbar conjunctiva, leading to yellowing of the sclera. This is a normal physiological phenomenon and typically does not require special treatment.

2. Pinguecula

This refers to localized tissue proliferation and pigmentation at the inner or outer corner of the eye, appearing white or yellowish-brown. It is usually caused by aging, ultraviolet (UV) exposure, and similar factors. Generally, no specific treatment is required. It is advisable to reduce UV exposure by wearing sun hats and sunglasses.

3. Conjunctivitis

This may be caused by infections from pathogens such as bacteria or viruses. When conjunctivitis occurs, the white part of the eye may become yellow and congested, accompanied by increased eye discharge and discomfort. Patients are advised to use medications such as chloramphenicol eye drops, ganciclovir eye drops, or ofloxacin eye drops as prescribed by a doctor.

4. Pterygium

This condition may be related to factors such as UV radiation and dust exposure. When fatty or fibrous tissue proliferates significantly and grows onto the surface of the cornea, it can lead to pterygium. This disorder not only causes yellowing of the sclera but may also induce significant astigmatism. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended, and treatment often involves surgical excision with cauterization of the pterygium.

5. Hepatitis

This may be associated with heavy alcohol consumption, viral infection, and other factors. The disease can impair liver function, leading to disrupted bilirubin metabolism. This results in elevated serum bilirubin levels, causing yellow discoloration of the sclera (icterus). Patients may also experience dark urine and skin jaundice. It is recommended that patients follow medical advice and take medications such as bifendate tablets, recombinant human interferon α2b injection, or Anluohuaxian pills.

In daily life, patients are advised to practice healthy eye habits, spend more time outdoors, avoid reading in dim lighting, maintain good eye hygiene, refrain from rubbing the eyes, and engage in moderate physical exercise such as running or playing badminton, which may benefit recovery.