Yellowing of the eyes, specifically the white part called the sclera, usually indicates a condition known as jaundice. Jaundice occurs when there is an excess buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced from the breakdown of red blood cells, in the blood. Normally, the liver processes bilirubin and helps remove it from the body, but if the liver, gallbladder, or bile ducts are not functioning properly, bilirubin accumulates and causes the yellow discoloration in the eyes and skin
. This yellowing of the eyes, medically termed scleral icterus or conjunctival icterus, is a sign of underlying health issues rather than a disease itself. Common causes include:
- Liver diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, fatty liver disease, and alcoholic hepatitis
- Blockage of bile ducts by gallstones or cancer of the liver, pancreas, or gallbladder
- Excessive breakdown of red blood cells (hemolysis) due to blood disorders like sickle cell anemia or malaria
- Use of certain medications such as acetaminophen, penicillin, oral contraceptives, and anabolic steroids
- Genetic or autoimmune disorders affecting liver function
- Newborn jaundice due to immature liver function, which usually resolves naturally
Other symptoms that may accompany yellow eyes include yellowing of the skin, dark urine, pale stools, itching, fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain, depending on the underlying cause
. If you notice yellowing of your eyes, it is important to seek medical evaluation promptly to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment, as some causes can be serious and require urgent care
