There are certain changes in the body that may seem like small details, but in fact they hide important signals about our health. One of them is the yellowish tint that can appear in the eyes, especially in the white part (sclera). Many people have noticed it in themselves or in others, and although it is sometimes considered temporary, it can actually be a clear symptom of a liver problem: hepatitis.
When the eyes turn yellow, the body is trying to warn us that something is wrong with the internal cleansing process of the liver. This is not just a change in color; it is a signal that should be taken very seriously, because behind this yellowish tone may be a toxic overload of the body.
The main cause of this yellowish color is called jaundice, which occurs when a substance called bilirubin builds up in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow-colored pigment that is formed when the body breaks down old red blood cells. Normally, the liver processes and eliminates bilirubin through bile, which then passes through the intestines and is excreted in the stool. But when the liver is inflamed or damaged, as in hepatitis, this process is interrupted and bilirubin begins to build up in the blood and tissues, turning the skin and eyes yellow.
Interestingly, the eyes are often the first place to notice this change, even before the skin turns yellow. This is because the sclera contains a high concentration of elastin, a protein that is easily stained by bilirubin and makes the shade more obvious.
Hepatitis, in its various forms (A, B, C, D, or E), can cause this buildup of bilirubin. In general, hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver, usually caused by a virus, but can also be caused by excessive alcohol consumption, certain medications, or poisoning. When the liver becomes inflamed, it loses some of its ability to process toxins, leading to a kind of “jamming” of its functions.
In addition to yellow eyes, hepatitis can also present with other symptoms that often go unnoticed or are mistaken for the flu — severe fatigue, a slight fever, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and pain in the upper right abdomen — right where the liver is located. As the disease progresses, urine may become darker, stools may become lighter, and the skin may also take on a characteristic yellowish hue.
It is important to know that the intensity of the yellow color can vary. In some cases, it is barely noticeable and can only be seen in bright light; in others, the color is so strong that it is noticeable to the naked eye. The amount of bilirubin accumulated in the blood determines the degree of jaundice.
Although yellow eyes are a very common symptom of hepatitis, it is important to know that this does not always mean that someone has this disease. Jaundice can also occur for other reasons, such as gallstones blocking the ducts of the liver, pancreatic diseases, or adverse reactions to certain medications. Therefore, you should not self-diagnose and, if you notice yellowing of the eyes or skin, you should definitely consult a doctor.
Hepatitis is diagnosed through blood tests that measure levels of bilirubin, liver enzymes, and specific antibodies. These tests help determine the type and severity of the disease. In some cases, the doctor may also order an ultrasound of the liver.
For viral hepatitis, treatment depends on the type:
Hepatitis A: is usually temporary and the body recovers with rest, good hydration, and a balanced diet.
Hepatitis B and C: require constant medical supervision as they can become chronic and cause more serious damage if not treated promptly.
Alcoholic or drug-induced hepatitis: treatment consists of stopping the use of the causative substance and helping the liver recover.
Something that is often overlooked is nutrition. The liver works directly with everything we eat, so a healthy diet is extremely important for its recovery. It is necessary to avoid fatty foods, sugary foods, alcohol and highly processed foods. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and plenty of water is recommended.
Another important aspect is rest. The liver regenerates mainly during sleep, so getting enough sleep helps it heal. Reducing stress and avoiding self-medication are also important to avoid overloading the liver.
You should know that yellow eyes do not disappear suddenly. As the liver recovers and bilirubin levels drop, the yellow color gradually fades. However, if the hue does not change for the better over time, this may indicate more serious liver damage or an unknown cause.
Seeing yellow eyes in the mirror can be unsettling, but it can also be a chance for early intervention. The body has a clever way of warning us when something is wrong, and in this case, the eyes are like a window that reflects what’s going on inside.
In short, yellow eyes due to hepatitis are the result of a buildup of bilirubin, a product of an inflamed or damaged liver that can’t function properly. This is a sign that shouldn’t be ignored because it could be the first warning sign of a bigger problem. Consulting a specialist, living a healthy lifestyle, and getting regular checkups are key to keeping your liver healthy and avoiding complications.
The liver is a noble, silent and resilient organ, but it also needs care. Listening to the signals our body sends us, such as a change in eye color, can be the difference between a quick recovery and a serious health problem. If you notice that yellow tint, don’t ignore it: it could be your body’s cry for help.
- This article is for informational purposes only and is intended to provide general information on the subject. It is not a substitute for consulting a medical professional. If you have any symptoms or health concerns, always consult a doctor.
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