What does jaundice feel like with fatty liver disease?

Jaundice is a yellow colour in the whites of the eyes or skin caused by bilirubin collecting in the body. It may be easier to see in natural light. Some people also notice itchy skin, darker urine, lighter stools, tiredness, nausea, or discomfort under the ribs on the right side. Fatty liver disease may cause few noticeable symptoms, so a new colour change should not be ignored.

Jaundice has several possible causes, including problems with bile flow, inflammation, infection, or blood-cell breakdown. Its presence does not identify the cause by itself. A clinician may use an examination, liver blood tests, and imaging to understand what is happening. The Jaundice guide covers the general symptom pattern.

Contact a clinician promptly if you notice yellowing, especially with dark urine, pale stools, increasing itch, abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, or loss of appetite. Bring a list of medicines, supplements, and alcohol intake, and mention when the change began. Do not start a detox product or stop prescribed medicine without medical advice.

If fatty liver disease has already been diagnosed, follow the care plan for nutrition, movement, weight management, and related conditions. These measures support liver health but do not explain away sudden jaundice. Testing is needed to check for another or worsening problem.

Get urgent help if jaundice occurs with fever or chills, severe abdominal pain, confusion, fainting, repeated vomiting, unusual bleeding, or extreme sleepiness. These symptoms may indicate a complication requiring immediate assessment.

Could the jaundice have a cause other than fatty liver disease? Which liver tests and scans should I have? Are any medicines or supplements affecting my liver? What changes should prompt urgent review?