Jaundice
Treating jaundice
Source: NHS
In this topic (4)
There are many possible treatments for jaundice, depending on the underlying cause.
A general overview of the recommended treatment plans for the main Jaundice is outlined below, including links to more detailed information.
Pre-hepatic jaundice
In treating pre-hepatic jaundice, the objective is to prevent the rapid breakdown of red blood cells that's causing bilirubin levels to build up in the blood.
In cases where pre-hepatic jaundice has been caused by an infection, such as malaria , medication to treat the underlying infection is usually recommended. For genetic blood disorders, such as sickle cell anaemia or thalassaemia , blood transfusions may be required to replace the red blood cells.
Gilbert's syndrome doesn't usually require treatment because the jaundice associated with it isn't particularly serious and doesn't pose a serious threat to health.
Intra-hepatic jaundice
In cases of intra-hepatic jaundice, little can be done to repair any liver damage, although the liver can often repair itself over time. The aim of treatment is to prevent further liver damage.
For liver damage caused by infection, such as viral hepatitis or glandular fever, anti-viral medications may be used to help prevent further damage.
If the damage is caused by alcohol or exposure to harmful substances, reducing alcohol consumption or avoiding further exposure to the substance is recommended.
In severe cases of liver disease, a liver transplant is another possible option. However, only a small number of people are suitable candidates for a transplant and the availability of donated livers is limited.
See the following topics for more information:
- Alcoholic liver disease
- Cirrhosis
- Glandular fever
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
- Leptospirosis
- Liver cancer
- Primary biliary cirrhosis
Post-hepatic jaundice
In most cases of post-hepatic jaundice, surgery to unblock the bile duct system is recommended.
During surgery, it may also be necessary to remove:
- the gallbladder
- a section of the bile duct system
- a section of the pancreas to prevent further blockages occurring
See the following topics for more information:
Articles for Jaundice
Causes of jaundice
Jaundice is caused by a build-up of a substance called bilirubin in the blood and tissues of the body.
Diagnosing jaundice
If you have jaundice, you'll have a number of initial tests to find out how severe it is and determine the underlying cause.
Introduction
Jaundice is a term used to describe the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. It's caused by a build-up of a substance called bilirubin.
Treating jaundice
There are many possible treatments for jaundice, depending on the underlying cause.
