Changes in Stool Color and Eye Yellowing: Is It Jaundice?

Fecal white discoloration?

In the past week, I visited a doctor due to occasional discomfort in my upper abdomen.
The doctor diagnosed me with gastritis and performed an abdominal ultrasound, which came back normal.
Recently, I have been more cautious with my diet; however, I noticed that in the past 2-3 days, my stool color has changed to yellow to light yellow, which is lighter than my usual brown to brownish-yellow.
Is this normal? Additionally, I feel that the whites of my eyes appear a bit more yellow (though they seem to have been similar before).
Is this jaundice? Here are the photos of my eyes: https://ppt.cc/fFtbNx https://ppt.cc/fS4ICx.

Zhe, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/14

Dr. Chen Shidian reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

The sclerae are normal; further observation is sufficient for now.

Reply Date: 2020/04/14

More Info

When it comes to changes in stool color and the yellowing of the eyes, it is essential to understand the potential implications of these symptoms, particularly regarding jaundice. Jaundice is characterized by an increase in bilirubin levels in the blood, leading to yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes (sclera). It can also affect stool color, often causing it to appear lighter or clay-colored.

In your case, you mentioned experiencing yellow to light yellow stool over the past few days, which is a notable change from your usual brown to brownish-yellow stool. This alteration could be related to several factors, including dietary changes, liver function, or bile production. Bile, produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, is responsible for the brown color of stool. If there is a decrease in bile reaching the intestines, it can lead to lighter-colored stools.
The yellowing of the sclera (the white part of the eyes) can also be indicative of elevated bilirubin levels. However, it is important to note that slight variations in scleral color can be normal, especially in individuals with different skin tones, such as those of Asian descent, where a natural yellowish tint may be more pronounced.
Given that you have recently experienced some discomfort in your upper abdomen and were diagnosed with gastritis, it is crucial to consider whether there may be an underlying liver issue or bile duct obstruction that could be contributing to these symptoms. While your abdominal ultrasound results were normal, it is still advisable to monitor your symptoms closely.
If the yellowing of your eyes becomes more pronounced or if you experience additional symptoms such as dark urine, pale stools, fatigue, or abdominal pain, it would be prudent to seek further medical evaluation. Blood tests measuring liver function, including bilirubin levels, alkaline phosphatase, and liver enzymes, can provide valuable insights into your liver health and help determine if jaundice is present.

In summary, while changes in stool color and the yellowing of the eyes can be concerning and may indicate jaundice, they can also result from benign factors such as dietary changes or natural variations in eye color. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional who can conduct a thorough evaluation, including blood tests, to rule out any serious conditions and provide appropriate guidance based on your specific situation. Regular monitoring and open communication with your healthcare provider will be key in addressing your concerns and ensuring your overall health.

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