Jaundice, also known as icterus , is a yellowing of the skin, sclera (the white of the eyes) and mucous membranes caused by high levels in blood of the chemical bilirubin.Bilirubin is a natural product arising from the normal breakdown of red blood cells in the body and is excreted in the bile, through the actions of the liver.Bilirubin comes from red blood cells. When red blood cells get are destroyed. Hemoglobin, is released from the destroyed red blood cells .The chemical that remains in the blood after the iron is removed becomes bilirubin.

Symptoms of Jaundice
Symptoms of jaundice includes following :

1. Yellow skin
2. Yellow eyes
3. Dark or reddish urine
4. Loss of appetite
5. Nausea
6. Itching skin
7. Pain in the abdomen
8. Weight loss
9. Headache

Causes of Jaundice

1. Obstruction of the bile ducts
2. viral hepatitis
3. typhoid,
4. malaria
5. alcoholic liver disease

The following diagnostic tests may be performed:

1. Blood serum bilirubin
2. Liver function tests
3. Ultrasound of the abdomen
4. Liver biopsy
5. Urine and fecal urobilinogen

Diet for Jaundice

Foods rich in glucose are recommended in jaundice. Fats are to be taken in reduced quantities. Deep fried foods & alcohol are to be avoided.

Treatment of Jaundice

The treatment for jaundice depends upon the type of jaundice.Surgery may be needed for the treatment of jaundice caused by blockage to the pathway of bile.