What does it mean when the eyeball turns yellow?
Disease description:
My eyes have been in poor condition these days; the eyeballs have turned yellow, and my overall mental state is also bad. I would like to know what causes the yellowing of the eyeballs.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Shuai
Yellowing of the whites of the eyes, known as scleral icterus, is usually caused by elevated levels of bilirubin, a condition referred to as jaundice. There are several possible causes of jaundice:
1. Liver disease: Conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer can impair the liver's ability to process bilirubin, leading to its accumulation in the blood.
2. Biliary tract problems: Blockage of the bile ducts, such as by stones or tumors, can prevent bilirubin from being excreted from the liver into the intestines, resulting in jaundice.
3. Genetic disorders: For example, neonatal jaundice occurs because the liver function of newborns is not fully developed, making it difficult to clear bilirubin effectively.
4. Excessive red blood cell destruction: Hemolytic anemia can lead to widespread rupture of red blood cells, releasing large amounts of bilirubin.
5. Medications or toxins: Certain drugs and chemicals may also cause jaundice.
Please note that if you notice yellowing of the eyes, you should seek medical attention promptly.
