What does it mean if you have yellow eyes?

Jaundice

Yellow eyes are often a sign of jaundice, a condition that causes the skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellow. Jaundice is caused by a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that is produced when red blood cells are broken down.

Bilirubin is normally processed by the liver and excreted in stool. However, if the liver is damaged or if there is a blockage in the bile ducts, bilirubin can build up in the bloodstream and cause jaundice.

Jaundice can be a sign of a serious underlying medical condition, such as:

* Liver disease, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis

* Gallbladder disease, such as gallstones

* Pancreatic cancer

* Certain medications

* Pregnancy

Other causes of yellow eyes

In addition to jaundice, there are a number of other conditions that can cause yellow eyes, including:

* Carotenemia: A condition that occurs when the body stores too much beta-carotene, the pigment that gives carrots and other vegetables their orange color. Carotenemia is usually harmless and will go away when you stop eating foods that are high in beta-carotene.

* Gilbert's syndrome: A genetic condition that causes the liver to process bilirubin more slowly than normal. Gilbert's syndrome is usually harmless and does not require treatment.

* Crigler-Najjar syndrome: A rare genetic condition that causes the liver to be unable to process bilirubin. Crigler-Najjar syndrome can be fatal if not treated.

When to see a doctor

It is important to see a doctor if you have yellow eyes, especially if you also have other symptoms, such as:

* Fatigue

* Nausea

* Vomiting

* Abdominal pain

* Dark urine

* Light-colored stools

Your doctor will be able to determine the cause of your yellow eyes and recommend treatment if necessary.