Does Jaundice Cause Death?
October 23, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Jaundice, in and of itself, is a symptom of an underlying medical condition rather than a specific disease that directly causes death. It is characterized by a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes due to an elevated level of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. Jaundice can be a sign of various underlying medical issues, including liver disease, hepatitis, and other conditions affecting the liver or bile ducts.
Whether jaundice is life-threatening or not depends on its cause and how severe the underlying condition is. In some cases, jaundice may be a relatively mild and self-limiting symptom, while in others, it can be a sign of a severe, potentially life-threatening condition.
For example, in cases of acute hepatitis or liver damage, jaundice can be a symptom of a serious condition that, if left untreated, may lead to complications that could potentially be life-threatening. Chronic liver diseases like cirrhosis can also cause jaundice and may lead to serious complications over time.
Additionally, newborns can develop jaundice, a condition known as neonatal jaundice, which is usually mild and temporary but requires monitoring in certain cases.
If you or someone you know is experiencing jaundice, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. The severity of the underlying condition and the response to treatment will determine the potential risk of death. Early diagnosis and intervention can often help prevent or manage the complications associated with jaundice.