In addition to yellow eyes, hepatitis can also present with other symptoms that often go unnoticed or are mistaken for the flu — severe fatigue, a slight fever, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and pain in the upper right abdomen — right where the liver is located. As the disease progresses, urine may become darker, stools may become lighter, and the skin may also take on a characteristic yellowish hue.
It is important to know that the intensity of the yellow color can vary. In some cases, it is barely noticeable and can only be seen in bright light; in others, the color is so strong that it is noticeable to the naked eye. The amount of bilirubin accumulated in the blood determines the degree of jaundice.
Although yellow eyes are a very common symptom of hepatitis, it is important to know that this does not always mean that someone has this disease. Jaundice can also occur for other reasons, such as gallstones blocking the ducts of the liver, pancreatic diseases, or adverse reactions to certain medications. Therefore, you should not self-diagnose and, if you notice yellowing of the eyes or skin, you should definitely consult a doctor.
Hepatitis is diagnosed through blood tests that measure levels of bilirubin, liver enzymes, and specific antibodies. These tests help determine the type and severity of the disease. In some cases, the doctor may also order an ultrasound of the liver.
For viral hepatitis, treatment depends on the type:
Hepatitis A: is usually temporary and the body recovers with rest, good hydration, and a balanced diet.
Hepatitis B and C: require constant medical supervision as they can become chronic and cause more serious damage if not treated promptly.
Alcoholic or drug-induced hepatitis: treatment consists of stopping the use of the causative substance and helping the liver recover.
Something that is often overlooked is nutrition. The liver works directly with everything we eat, so a healthy diet is extremely important for its recovery. It is necessary to avoid fatty foods, sugary foods, alcohol and highly processed foods. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and plenty of water is recommended.
Another important aspect is rest. The liver regenerates mainly during sleep, so getting enough sleep helps it heal. Reducing stress and avoiding self-medication are also important to avoid overloading the liver.
You should know that yellow eyes do not disappear suddenly. As the liver recovers and bilirubin levels drop, the yellow color gradually fades. However, if the hue does not change for the better over time, this may indicate more serious liver damage or an unknown cause.
Seeing yellow eyes in the mirror can be unsettling, but it can also be a chance for early intervention. The body has a clever way of warning us when something is wrong, and in this case, the eyes are like a window that reflects what’s going on inside.
