Jaundice Treatment in Kolkata
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Quick Answers
Can Severe Jaundice Cause Brain Damage in Newborns?
Severe untreated jaundice can cause brain damage in newborns.
Can Genetic Conditions Cause Jaundice from Birth?
Some inherited conditions can cause jaundice from birth.
Can Eating Too Many Carrots or Pumpkins Cause Jaundice?
Carrots and pumpkins can yellow the skin but not cause jaundice.
Can Jaundice Be Treated?
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve medicines or procedures.
What is Jaundice?
Jaundice is a condition that causes yellowing of the skin and eyes due to increased bilirubin levels in the blood. It can occur because of liver problems, increased red blood cell breakdown, or a blockage that affects bile flow.
Key points:
- Can have different underlying causes
- Liver and bile duct conditions may cause jaundice
- Symptoms can range from mild to serious
- Early assessment helps identify the cause
Types of Jaundice
Pre-Hepatic (Hemolytic)
Rapid red blood cell breakdown causes high unconjugated bilirubin; malaria and thalassaemia are common triggers.
Hepatic (Hepatocellular)
Liver cell damage causes mixed bilirubin elevation; hepatitis, cirrhosis and alcoholic liver disease are triggers.
Post-Hepatic (Obstructive)
Bile duct blockage raises conjugated bilirubin; gallstones, pancreatitis and tumours are common triggers.
Symptoms Of Jaundice
Common Symptoms
- Yellowing of skin and eyes
- Deep yellow or brown urine
- Clay-coloured or grey bowel movements
- Persistent itching across the body
- Ongoing tiredness and low energy
- Loss of appetite or nausea
- Pain near the upper abdomen
Red Flags (When To See A Doctor)
- Intense or worsening upper abdominal pain
- Possible infection requiring urgent medical care
- Confusion, drowsiness or difficulty waking
- Vomiting blood or passing black stools
- Unexplained bruising or prolonged bleeding
- Symptoms quickly becoming more severe
- Jaundice requiring prompt medical evaluation
Why Choose Samaritan Medical Surgical & Critical Care?
At Samaritan Medical Surgical & Critical Care, we provide comprehensive healthcare solutions as per your needs. With a team of expert professionals, we focus on delivering compassionate, patient-centred care for optimal well-being.
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Our Doctors
DR. D. K. SARKAR
Qualifications: MBBSMS, DNB FRCS, (GOLD), FFSTED
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Fees: Rs. 1,200.00
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DR. SAPTARSHI KUNDU
Qualifications: MBBS, MS (GEN SUR)
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DR. RUDRADEEP BANERJEE
Qualifications: MS (Gen. Surg.), DNB, MRCS
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DR. ACHINTA KR DAS
Qualifications: MBBS, MS
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Available Time: TUE 16:30-17:30 & WED 18:00-19:00
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Available Time: 11:00-13:00
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Individuals at Highest Risk for Jaundice
| Group | Factors | Numeric Details |
|---|---|---|
| Newborns | Immature liver processes bilirubin slowly | 60% full-term; 80% premature babies |
| Premature Babies | Born before liver maturity | Born before 37 weeks |
| Older Adults | Dehydration, malnutrition, liver dysfunction, medicines, gallstones | Risk increases with age |
| People with Liver Disease | Hepatitis, cirrhosis or autoimmune liver disease | Chronic liver conditions increase risk |
| People with Genetic Conditions | Gilbert's syndrome affects bilirubin processing | Episodes triggered by fasting or dehydration |
Causes Of Jaundice
Jaundice is recognised as a major public health concern in India, making understanding its causes important for prevention.
High Bilirubin Production
- Red Cell Breakdown: Produces excess bilirubin.
- Hemolytic Disorders: Destroy red blood cells.
- Liver Processing: Cannot keep pace.
- Result: Bilirubin accumulates in the blood.
Liver Problems
- Liver Damage: Affects bilirubin processing.
- Hepatitis: Can impair liver function.
- Chronic Liver Disease: Reduces bilirubin clearance.
- Result: Bilirubin builds up.
Bile Duct Blockage
- Blocked Bile Ducts: Prevent bilirubin drainage.
- Gallstones: Commonly cause duct obstruction.
- Bile Flow: Slows or stops.
- Result: Bilirubin backs up.
Jaundice Patterns, Diagnosis & Treatment Approach
| Pattern | Type | First-Line Approach |
When Advanced Treatment Is Needed |
Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rapid RBC breakdown | Haemolytic jaundice | Treat underlying cause | Severe haemolysis | Bilirubin improves |
| Liver inflammation or damage | Hepatocellular jaundice | Cause-specific care | Significant liver dysfunction | Improved liver function |
| Blocked bile flow | Obstructive jaundice | Relieve obstruction | Complex or persistent blockage | Improved bile flow |
| Severe jaundice with complications | Severe jaundice | Urgent hospital care | Organ dysfunction | Depends on cause |
Procedure & Recovery: What to Expect
Early assessment helps identify the cause of jaundice and detect liver or bile duct complications.
Supportive Treatment
- Adequate fluid intake
- Nutritional support when appropriate
- Medicines based on the underlying cause
- Regular symptom monitoring
Medical Monitoring
- Blood tests when clinically required
- Bilirubin level monitoring
- Liver function assessment
- Monitoring for worsening symptoms
Hospital Treatment
- Intravenous fluids when required
- Treatment for underlying complications
- Procedures for bile duct obstruction when needed
- Critical care when medically necessary
Recovery & Results Timeline
- Mild to Moderate: Recovery usually takes 1–4 weeks.
- Severe Cases: Recovery may take several months.
- Newborns: Resolve in 1–2 weeks; phototherapy takes 1–2 days.
- Adults: Recovery takes 10 days–1 month; energy may take 6 months.
Available Diagnosis & Tests
- Viral infections: Supportive care or antiviral treatment.
- Bile duct blockages: ERCP, surgery or stent placement.
- Haemolytic anaemia: Medicines or blood transfusions.
- Severe liver damage: Advanced treatment or liver transplantation.
- Symptom relief: Medicines help manage persistent itching.
For Newborns (Neonatal)
- Phototherapy: Special lights reduce excess bilirubin.
- Frequent feeding: Helps eliminate bilirubin through waste.
- Advanced care: IVIg or exchange transfusion treatment.
Complications if Left Untreated
- Progressive Liver Damage
- Bile Duct Infection.
- Sepsis
- Severe Malnutrition
- Bleeding Problems
- Hepatic Encephalopathy
- Neurological Problems
- Kidney Failure
- Multiple Organ Dysfunction
- Long-Term Disabilities:
- Life-Threatening Complications
Daily Management & Prevention Tips
Management
- Drink adequate fluids regularly
- Follow recommended dietary advice
- Take medicines as prescribed
- Attend recommended medical follow-ups
- Follow your doctor's treatment advice
Prevention
- Maintain good hand and food hygiene
- Avoid sharing needles or contaminated instruments
- Follow recommended vaccination advice
- Avoid unnecessary medicines that may affect the liver
- Seek medical advice for persistent symptoms
Frequently Asked Questions
Is jaundice contagious?
Jaundice itself is not a communicable or contagious disease, but some of the underlying conditions that cause it can spread from person to person
What is type 2 jaundice?
Type 2 refers to Crigler-Najjar syndrome type 2, a rare genetic liver disorder that reduces bilirubin processing and causes mild or intermittent yellowing of the skin and eyes.
What organ failure causes jaundice?
Jaundice is primarily caused by failure or severe dysfunction of the liver, as the liver fails to process and clear bilirubin—a yellow pigment created by the breakdown of red blood cells
How Long Does Jaundice Last?
The duration varies depending on the underlying cause. Some cases improve within days, while liver or bile duct conditions may require longer treatment.
Can Jaundice Occur More Than Once?
Jaundice can return if the underlying cause returns or if a person develops another condition that affects bilirubin processing or bile flow.