Why is the white of my eye cloudy and yellow?
I am a 45-year-old male. Recently, I noticed that the white part of my eye has become cloudy and yellowish, appearing quite abnormal. Although there is no obvious pain, I constantly feel dryness and discomfort in my eyes. This situation has caused me some concern, and I would like to understand what might be causing the cloudiness and yellowing of the white part of my eye.
Doctor's answer (1)
Cloudy and yellow whites of the eyes may be caused by various factors. A common cause is jaundice resulting from abnormal liver function or biliary tract problems. When the level of bilirubin in the body increases, yellow discoloration can appear on the skin and the whites of the eyes. In addition, prolonged eye strain, ocular inflammation, or fat deposits on the conjunctiva may also lead to changes in the color of the whites of the eyes. If symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, or other systemic discomfort are present, the condition may be related to a systemic disease. To address this situation, identifying the exact underlying cause is essential to take appropriate measures to improve symptoms.
It is recommended to visit a hospital promptly for comprehensive examinations, especially tests of liver function and the biliary system, to rule out any potential health problems. In daily life, maintain regular作息 (作息 should be replaced with appropriate English term, e.g.,作息 = rest and activity cycles), avoid staying up late, reduce intake of high-fat foods, and protect liver health. Also, practice good eye hygiene, avoid prolonged screen time, and use artificial tears as needed to relieve dry eyes. If diagnosed with jaundice, treatment with medications such as Coptis capsules, phenobarbital tablets, or menadiol acetate tablets may be followed as directed by a physician.
