The sclera, the white part of your eyes, serves as a critical indicator of overall eye health. When this area begins to appear yellow, it can be a sign of a deeper issue within the body. This yellow discolouration is often linked to jaundice, a condition that results from elevated levels of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Jaundice can be caused by a variety of factors, including certain medications and a range of medical conditions.

Bilirubin is a yellow compound that occurs naturally in the body as a by-product of the breakdown of red blood cells. Typically, the liver processes bilirubin, which is then excreted from the body. However, when there is a problem with the liver, gallbladder, or pancreas, bilirubin can accumulate in the blood, leading to the yellowing of the eyes and skin.

The first step in addressing yellow eyes is to diagnose the underlying medical condition. If yellow or any other colour develops in your eyes, you should see a doctor without any delay.

Causes 

The medical term for yellow eyes is conjunctival icterus or scleral icterus. New borns, children, and adults can have jaundice. However, the reasons for jaundice differ among age groups. Jaundice indicates improper functioning of the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts.

How Jaundice Occurs

The liver typically filters out bilirubin from the blood. It makes fluid called bile, which flows through bile ducts to the nearby gallbladder. Bile accumulates in the gallbladder and is eventually expelled by the body. When the liver does not function correctly, bilirubin piles up in the blood, appearing on the eyes and skin as a yellow tint. If there is a high concentration of bilirubin, the color can turn to a brown shade.

Jaundice begins so slowly that it goes unnoticed initially. It typically appears in the sclera, the whites of the eyes. Although jaundice changes the color of the eyes, it does not affect vision.

Medical Conditions Leading to Yellow Eyes

New born Jaundice: New born infants can have jaundice. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) claims that nearly 60% of all babies develop jaundice because their livers are too immature to process bilirubin. Mild cases of jaundice in infants generally go away without medication. Light therapy (phototherapy) helps reduce bilirubin levels and provides quick recovery. However, 5% of affected infants need proper treatment.

Infection or Inflammation of the Liver (Hepatitis): Hepatitis severely affects the liver, aggravating its ability to process bilirubin appropriately, resulting in hepatocellular jaundice.

Autoimmune Diseases: These can produce hepatitis. Hepatitis A, B, and C viruses may severely affect liver cells, leading to either acute (short-lived) or chronic (long-term) hepatitis and yellow eyes.

Obstructive Jaundice: Bile flows from the liver to the gallbladder through the ducts. If there is a blockage, such as gallstones, bile cannot flow and builds up in the blood, causing obstructive jaundice.

Other Medical Conditions: Acute pancreatitis, cancers of the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder, hemolytic anaemia, malaria, and rare genetic disorders in the liver can also cause yellow eyes.

By understanding the underlying causes of yellow eyes, one can better appreciate the importance of monitoring changes in eye color and seeking medical advice when necessary. Early detection and treatment of the conditions that lead to jaundice can help maintain overall health and prevent more severe complications.

Additional Causes of Yellow Eyes

Specific Medications Certain prescription drugs can cause yellow eyes as a side effect. These include:

  • Penicillin: An antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections.
  • Oral Contraceptives: Birth control pills that can affect liver function in some individuals.
  • Chlorpromazine: An antipsychotic used to treat mental disorders.
  • Anabolic Steroids: Used for muscle building, these can impact liver health.

Pinguecula

Pinguecula is a yellowish growth that appears on the upper part of the sclera. Unlike jaundice, the entire white part of the eye does not turn yellow. Pingueculae develop due to excessive exposure to UV radiation, either from the sun or artificial sources. While often benign, if a pinguecula grows more extensive and causes discomfort or vision problems, surgery may be required to remove the yellowish growth.

Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is the severe scarring of the liver, leading to poor liver function. This condition is often caused by toxins such as alcohol or viral infections. The liver is crucial for various bodily functions, including:

  • Producing Bile: Necessary for absorbing dietary fats, cholesterol, and vitamins A, D, E, and K.
  • Storing Nutrients: Keeps sugar and vitamins for later use.
  • Purifying Blood: Removes toxins from the bloodstream.
  • Creating Clotting Proteins: Essential for blood clotting. Cirrhosis more commonly affects men than women and can lead to yellowing of the eyes as bilirubin builds up in the body.

Tips for Reducing Yellow Eyes

Adopting a healthy lifestyle can help your organs function correctly and reduce symptoms associated with yellow eyes. Here are some tips to help reduce the yellowing of eyes:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
  • Increase Dietary Fiber: Include more fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes, and whole grains in your diet.
  • Consume Lean Protein: Opt for fish, nuts, and legumes as protein sources.
  • Avoid Processed Foods: Steer clear of packaged and processed foods.
  • Limit Refined Carbohydrates: Avoid sugary baked goods and candies.
  • Limit Alcohol Intake: Reduce or eliminate alcohol consumption.
  • Avoid Tobacco Products: Refrain from smoking or using other tobacco products.
  • Do Not Use Illegal Drugs: Stay away from illicit substances. ∙Exercise Daily: Engage in regular physical activity.

Treatment for Yellow Eyes

Doctors do not treat eye yellowing directly; instead, they focus on identifying and remedying the underlying medical condition. Once the cause of increased bilirubin is treated, the yellow discoloration typically resolves. Other symptoms accompanying yellow eyes may include fatigue, fever, pale stools, dark urine, loss of appetite, nausea, and sudden weight loss. A blood test for bilirubin, a complete blood count, and other liver tests help diagnose the root cause of yellow eyes. If alcohol or drug use is part of the diagnosis, avoiding these substances is crucial to start the healing process.

Diet for Yellow Eyes

Medical specialists suggest that people affected by jaundice should stay well-hydrated and consume more liver-friendly foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and nuts. As the liver recovers with treatment, jaundice and yellow eyes will improve.

Consulting an Eye Doctor

If you notice yellowing of your eyes, do not delay consulting an eye specialist. They will conduct a comprehensive examination and, if necessary, refer you to another physician. Never ignore the yellowing of the eyes, as prompt diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious complications and organ damage. Immediate consultation with a doctor can ensure effective treatment and help maintain your overall well-being.

Importance of Eye Health Monitoring

Monitoring changes in the color of your sclera is vital for detecting potential health issues early. Yellow eyes can indicate various underlying health problems, from medication side effects to severe conditions like cirrhosis. Seeking medical advice promptly when you notice yellowing of the eyes can lead to early diagnosis and treatment, helping to maintain overall health and prevent complications.

By being aware of these additional causes and understanding how they affect the body, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their eye health and overall well-being.