What causes yellowing in the eyes?

Yellowing of the eyes may typically be caused by improper diet, aging, viral hepatitis, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, cirrhosis, and other reasons. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Improper Diet

This refers to excessive intake of foods rich in carotene, such as carrots and pumpkins, which leads to elevated blood carotene levels. The excess carotene is absorbed by the body and deposited in the mucous membranes and other tissues, forming yellow pigmentation—including on the sclera (white part) of the eyes. This may also be accompanied by mild yellowing of the skin throughout the body. No special treatment is required; simply reduce consumption of carotene-rich foods and maintain a balanced diet.

2. Aging

With advancing age, increased fat deposition and pigment accumulation in the eye area may lead to yellowing of the eyes. This may be accompanied by other related issues such as declining vision and presbyopia. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, avoiding excessive eye strain, and undergoing regular eye examinations can help detect and manage eye problems early.

3. Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis is caused by hepatitis viruses (such as types A, B, C, D, and E), leading to liver cell damage and impaired liver function. When liver cells are damaged, bilirubin metabolism is disrupted, causing elevated bilirubin levels in the blood. This excess bilirubin deposits in the sclera of the eyes, resulting in yellowing. Symptoms may also include fatigue, vomiting, and pain in the liver area. Treatment may include medications such as silibinin capsules, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablets, and lamivudine tablets, as prescribed by a physician.

4. Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia

This condition arises from immune system dysregulation of B cells, leading to production of antibodies against red blood cells, causing their destruction and hemolysis. Hemolysis increases bilirubin levels in the blood, which then deposits in the sclera, causing yellowing of the eyes. It is typically accompanied by symptoms such as anemia, fever, and chills. Treatment may include medications such as prednisone acetate tablets, dexamethasone tablets, and cyclophosphamide, as directed by a doctor.

5. Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis results from long-term chronic liver disease, leading to fibrosis and hardening of liver tissue and reduced liver function. Impaired bilirubin metabolism causes increased blood bilirubin levels, which deposit in the sclera, resulting in yellowing of the eyes. Other symptoms may include ascites (abdominal fluid accumulation) and lower limb edema. Treatment should follow medical advice and may involve medications such as ursodeoxycholic acid tablets, rifampicin capsules, and ceftriaxone sodium for injection.

Maintain a balanced diet, adopt healthy lifestyle habits, undergo regular eye check-ups, and pay close attention to overall health.