Is Jaundice Always a Sign of Liver Disease?

When the whites of your eyes or your skin get a yellowish cast, it can be an alarming reminder that something’s not quite right. It’s the kind of thing that comes to mind when people have a condition called jaundice, and it can prompt a quick worry about liver issues. But is the liver always at fault? Not necessarily. Though jaundice is often associated with liver problems, it can develop with a variety of conditions.

What is jaundice?

Jaundice happens when too much bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced when the body breaks down red blood cells, is in the blood. Normally, the liver removes bilirubin and passes it into the gut in the stool. But when the system malfunctions, bilirubin can build up and cause the yellow discoloration. It is so important to know about the signs of liver disease, which can help with proper treatment.

It is very important to know about the signs of liver disease so that you can take proper treatment at the proper time.
But here is the question that arises: Is jaundice a liver problem?

The answer can be yes; mainly, it’s a liver problem. The liver is the only organ that helps in removing bilirubin from the body. Indirectly or directly, if the liver is not working well, then it doesn’t flush out bilirubin properly.

Let’s discuss the liver-related causes of jaundice

Hepatitis

Hepatitis is a liver inflammation, and it is often caused by viral infections (hepatitis A, B, or C). It injures liver cells, which impairs the liver’s ability to filter and eliminate bilirubin, in turn causing jaundice.

Fatty Liver Disease

In this condition, fat accumulates in liver cells, impairing how well the cells work. Meaning bilirubin does not metabolize properly, and the result appears in the form of mild to moderate jaundice.

Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is permanent scarring of the liver from prolonged damage (usually from alcohol, hepatitis, or other diseases). The dry tissue obstructs the free circulation of blood and bile, which results in bilirubin being trapped in the liver’s blood supply and remaining in the bloodstream.

Liver damage due to alcohol

Alcohol overuse over time can inflame or scar the liver. This damage inhibits the liver from processing bilirubin, so jaundice is a frequent indicator among people who have alcoholic liver disease.

Liver Cancer

If a liver tumor obstructs the bile ducts or destroys healthy liver tissue. This interferes with the flow of bile and causes the bile salts to be reabsorbed into the body instead of being excreted normally, which results in the accumulation of bilirubin in the skin and eyes.

Is it possible to have jaundice without liver disease?

Yes, jaundice in a few situations may not be related to liver diseases. It can also happen due to:

• Blockages in the bile ducts (such as gallstones)
• Blood disorders that cause blood cells to break down
• Infant jaundice, the most common minor condition in newborn babies.
• Some infections or medicines that change the level of bilirubin.

So, here is proof that jaundice is not always a liver problem; sometimes it can be triggered by other health conditions.

Signs of liver disease

While jaundice is essential to give you the signs that you have it, some signs of liver disease determine if the liver is involved or not. These signs are:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Itchy skin
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Fatigue and weakness
• Dark-colored urine
• Pale or clay-colored stools
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal pain or swelling
• Bruising or bleeding easily
• Bloody vomit
• Feeling unusually irritated
• Confusion 
• Abnormal drowsiness

If you notice any of the vague signs other than jaundice, then it can be a strong indication that jaundice is caused because of liver disease only.

About Dr. Sushil Kumar Jain

Dr. Sushil Kumar Jain is the best liver specialist in Jaipur, with an experience of more than 13 years in the field, and treats liver diseases and digestive disorders. From liver cirrhosis and hepatitis to GERD, ulcers, and IBS, his precision-based approach is based on compassion and patient-centered care. In his advanced clinic, ACE Gastro Center, he utilizes the latest technology in combination with an individualized approach, and has gained the trust of thousands, making him a leading expert to consult.

Final thoughts

Jaundice is more than yellow skin: it’s your body telling you something is wrong. Don’t allow silent symptoms to rob you of your well-being. Opt for specialist treatment, don’t leave it too late, and manage your health with the safe hands of Dr. Sushil Kumar Jain, since a brighter life begins with a healthier you.

Also Read: Symptoms of Liver Cancer: What to Do After