Yellowing Eyes: Is It a Sign of Liver Disease? - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Is it jaundice... is it a liver disease?

Hello, doctor...
I am a high school freshman.
Since middle school, I have noticed a yellowish area with a bit of black at the lower edge of my eyeball, which looks quite unappealing, especially when I make a funny face.
It also gives me a tired appearance.
If I don't get enough sleep, the yellow color seems to spread across the entire eyeball, as if the original yellow area is expanding, and the color of that spot becomes lighter while the yellow fills the whole eye.
That's roughly how it is...
In the health report from school, my liver function showed no abnormalities, but I'm unsure about hepatitis (they mentioned I have antibodies).
However, my blood tests showed some abnormal reactions, and I have not gone for a follow-up check yet.
I wonder if this is related.
Could you please provide your insights on my issue and advise me on how to proceed? Thank you.
Additionally, my father is a carrier of hepatitis B but was treated a long time ago.
I wonder if this has any impact.
Thank you very much...
^^

Huang Didi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/04/16

Dr. Chen Jianhong reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello Mr.
Huang! The symptoms described in your letter may not be related to the liver, but the information provided about the liver tests is not very clear.
If you are still concerned, it is advisable to visit a hepatobiliary specialist for a detailed blood test to check for any signs of jaundice.
If the liver tests are normal, it might be a good idea to consult a dermatologist.
Additionally, if there are any abnormalities in your health check report or blood tests, it is best to have them re-evaluated to clarify any issues.

Reply Date: 2004/04/16

More Info

Yellowing of the eyes, also known as jaundice, can indeed be a sign of liver disease, but it can also be caused by other factors. In your case, since you mentioned that your liver function tests have shown no abnormalities, it is less likely that your yellowing eyes are directly related to liver disease. However, it is important to consider a few key points regarding your symptoms and overall health.

Firstly, jaundice occurs when there is an accumulation of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. The liver typically processes bilirubin, and any dysfunction in this process can lead to elevated levels and subsequent yellowing of the skin and eyes. Since your liver function tests are normal, this suggests that your liver is functioning properly in terms of processing bilirubin.

However, you mentioned that you have a yellowish area at the lower edge of your eye, which could be a condition known as pinguecula or pterygium. These are growths on the conjunctiva (the clear membrane covering the white part of the eye) that can appear yellowish and are often associated with prolonged exposure to sunlight, dust, or wind. They are generally benign and do not indicate liver disease. If the yellowing spreads or changes, it would be wise to consult an eye specialist for a thorough examination.

Regarding your concern about your father being a carrier of hepatitis B, it is important to note that while hepatitis B can lead to liver disease, being a carrier does not necessarily mean that you will develop liver problems. However, it is advisable to have regular check-ups, especially if there is a family history of liver disease. If you have had blood tests that show abnormal reactions, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider to investigate further.

In terms of your overall health, you mentioned feeling lethargic and that lack of sleep exacerbates the yellowing of your eyes. Sleep deprivation can lead to a variety of symptoms, including fatigue and changes in skin tone, which may make the yellowing more noticeable. Ensuring you get adequate rest, maintaining a balanced diet, and staying hydrated can help improve your overall appearance and energy levels.

If you are concerned about your liver health or any potential underlying conditions, it would be beneficial to consult with a healthcare professional who can perform a comprehensive evaluation, including blood tests for liver function, hepatitis screening, and possibly imaging studies if necessary. They can provide you with tailored advice based on your specific health situation.

In summary, while yellowing of the eyes can be a sign of liver disease, your normal liver function tests suggest that this is not the case for you. It is essential to monitor your symptoms, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and seek medical advice for any persistent or concerning changes. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider will help ensure your health is managed effectively.

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