Causes of yellow eyes and skin

Bilirubin is produced when old red blood cells are processed. The liver normally changes it so the body can remove it through bile. Yellowing can occur when the liver is inflamed, bile flow is blocked, or bilirubin production rises. Hepatitis A, B, or C can affect the liver. Gallstones may obstruct bile drainage. Malaria and some blood disorders can also contribute. Less commonly, liver cancer, liver metastases, or pancreatic cancer can interfere with liver function or bile flow. Dark urine, pale stools, itching, nausea, abdominal discomfort, fever, or unusual tiredness may provide useful clues, but the appearance alone cannot identify the cause.

Arrange medical assessment promptly rather than waiting for the colour to settle. Tell the clinician about new medicines, supplements, alcohol use, travel, possible infection exposure, abdominal pain, and changes in urine or stools. Testing may include blood tests and imaging to examine liver function and bile flow. Avoid alcohol until you have been assessed and do not take extra medicines or herbal products without checking their safety.

Seek urgent care for yellowing with confusion, extreme sleepiness, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, fever, bleeding, very dark urine with pale stools, or rapidly worsening illness. A newborn with yellow skin or eyes needs prompt advice from a healthcare professional, especially if feeding poorly or difficult to wake.

Ask which tests are needed, whether medicines or infections could be involved, whether close contacts need advice, and which changes should lead you to emergency care.