Subtitle: How liver failure causes yellow eyes
The yellowing of the eyes, also known as jaundice, is a symptom of several conditions, including liver failure. When the liver is not functioning properly, it cannot filter toxins from the bloodstream. As a result, these toxins build up in the body and cause a yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes.
Bilirubin: Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced by the breakdown of red blood cells. Normally, the liver filters out bilirubin and excretes it in bile. However, when the liver is not functioning properly, it can no longer filter out bilirubin, causing it to build up in the blood and cause jaundice.
Hepatitis: Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver caused by a virus. It can lead to permanent damage of the liver, which can cause it to become unable to filter toxins from the blood. This can lead to a buildup of bilirubin, resulting in yellow eyes.
Cirrhosis: Cirrhosis is a chronic condition caused by long-term liver damage. It can cause the liver to be unable to filter toxins from the blood, resulting in a buildup of bilirubin and yellowing of the eyes.
Medications: Certain medications can cause the liver to become unable to properly filter toxins from the blood. These medications can lead to a buildup of bilirubin, resulting in yellow eyes.
Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can damage the liver and cause it to become unable to filter toxins from the blood. This can lead to a buildup of bilirubin, resulting in yellow eyes.