What causes yellowing of the eyes?

Under normal circumstances, yellowing of the eyes may be caused by eye strain, consumption of pigmented foods, malnutrition, macular degeneration, hepatitis, or other conditions. Patients should promptly visit a正规 hospital for diagnosis and receive appropriate treatment based on their specific condition. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Eye strain

Prolonged overuse of the eyes—such as extended periods of work, studying, using mobile phones or computers, and frequent late-night hours—may lead to eye fatigue. When the eyes are fatigued, symptoms such as conjunctival congestion and fat deposition in the conjunctiva may occur, resulting in yellowing of the eyes. It is recommended to rest adequately, avoid electronic screens, and perform eye massages and warm compresses.

2. Consumption of pigmented foods

If large amounts of pigment-rich foods such as carrots, pumpkin, and oranges have been consumed recently, blood carotene levels may rise. Carotene can deposit in the ocular mucosa, leading to yellowing of the eyes. This is usually a physiological phenomenon that does not require special treatment. Symptoms can be relieved by drinking more water and promoting metabolism.

3. Malnutrition

Malnutrition, especially vitamin deficiency, may impair bilirubin metabolism in the body, leading to elevated bilirubin levels in the blood and causing yellowing of the eyes. Patients should maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and proteins.

4. Macular degeneration

Macular degeneration is a degenerative disease affecting the macula region of the retina, which may cause symptoms such as decreased vision and visual distortion, and may also be associated with the aforementioned yellowing. Patients may use medications such as conbercept intraocular injection, ranibizumab injection, or aflibercept ophthalmic solution under medical supervision.

5. Hepatitis

Hepatitis is a liver infection caused by viruses that can impair liver function. When liver function is compromised, bilirubin metabolism may be disrupted, causing bilirubin to accumulate in the bloodstream and resulting in yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. Patients may take medications such as inosine tablets, hepatoprotective tablets, or Yigan Shukang capsules as prescribed by a doctor.

In daily life, it is recommended to maintain a positive mindset, avoid spicy, stimulating, and greasy foods, get sufficient rest, and develop healthy lifestyle habits.