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Yellow Coloured Eyes and Skin (Jaundice)

Do not ignore yellow eyes — it is a sign that the liver is asking for help.

symptoms

  • The white part of the eyes will look yellow.
  • The skin may become slightly yellow — for dark-skinned people, it shows more in the eyes or inside the mouth.
  • The urine will be deep yellow — like pineapple flavoured mirinda.
  • The body will feel weak, and the person will not have energy to do work.
  • The body may itch, especially at night.
  • A baby may cry with a weak voice or may not suck breast well.
  • Some people may have a fever or feel pain on the right side of their stomach (belly).

causes

  • It can happen when the liver is not working well. The yellow colour will then show in the eyes and skin. The liver is an organ in the body that helps clean the blood.
  • It can happen when there is an infection in the liver. The infection is something that enters the liver and disturbs its work.
  • It can come from malaria or using too much medicine that damages the liver.
  • A baby can have it from birth if the liver was not fully formed while still in the mother's womb.
  • It can also happen if the mother had an infection while the baby was still in her womb.
  • A person can get it from using dirty needles or from having unprotected sex — this can pass on liver diseases that cause it.

effects

  • It can damage the liver if the person does not treat it.
  • The person will feel weak and may not be able to do their normal work again.
  • It can cause problems in pregnancy and may harm the baby.
  • A baby that is born with it can have brain problems if it is not treated quickly.
  • The disease can completely destroy the liver if the person uses drugs that harm the liver.

prevention

lifestyle

  • Do not use medicine carelessly — even too much paracetamol can affect the liver.
  • Boil or treat your water well to avoid infection.
  • Always use a new needle for injections or ask them to clean it properly.
  • Do not share razors, sharp objects, toothbrushes, or needles.
  • If you want to get a tattoo or pierce your ear, make sure the tool is well cleaned.
  • If your eyes look yellow or your urine changes colour — go to the hospital immediately.
  • If a woman is pregnant, she should go to a hospital that cares for pregnant women — they will test the liver and treat it quickly so that the baby will not be affected.

foods to eat (foods that protect the liver)

  • Food that is not fried.
  • Boiled rice with ugu or scent leaf stew.
  • Boiled yam or sweet potato.
  • Pawpaw.
  • Watermelon.
  • Orange.
  • Soft okro soup.
  • Ugu soup with a small amount of red oil.
  • Water leaf soup with a small amount of crayfish (no seasoning cubes).
  • Boiled corn.
  • Cucumber.
  • Oat swallow.
  • Light vegetable soup.
  • Lemon water.
  • Coconut water.
  • Boiled fish (do not fry it).
  • Carrot.
  • Mashed avocado (pear).
  • Pap with a little milk.
  • Guava.
  • Zobo drink (without sugar).
  • Light and soft bean porridge.

comment

  • Do not ignore yellow eyes — it is a sign that the liver is asking for help.
  • Go and test your liver if you are always tired or if your eyes are changing colour.
  • Too much alcohol, medicine, or unknown herbal mixtures can damage the liver.
  • If your baby is not sucking well and the eyes are yellow — go to the hospital quickly.

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    Important Medical Disclaimer

    This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.