What does jaundice feel like with liver cirrhosis?

Jaundice itself may not hurt. You may first notice yellowing in the whites of your eyes, then a yellow or deeper tone to the skin. Liver cirrhosis can also be associated with persistent itching, low energy, reduced appetite, nausea, abdominal swelling or easy bruising. Urine may become tea-coloured and stools may look unusually light because bile is not moving or being processed normally.

The appearance and intensity can vary with skin tone and lighting. Yellowing needs medical assessment because it can have several causes, including liver, gallbladder or blood-related problems.

Arrange a prompt appointment with a clinician if you notice new yellowing, dark urine or pale stools. Mention alcohol use, prescribed medicines, supplements, hepatitis history, itching, swelling and any change in alertness. Do not stop prescribed treatment without advice, and avoid alcohol until you have been assessed. A clinician may examine you and request blood tests or imaging to understand liver function and the cause.

Seek urgent medical help for jaundice with confusion, unusual sleepiness, vomiting blood, black stools, severe abdominal pain, fever, repeated vomiting, rapidly increasing swelling or difficulty breathing. These symptoms can signal a serious complication and should not wait for a routine appointment.

Ask what may be causing the yellowing, whether your cirrhosis appears stable, which medicines or supplements should be reviewed, and which symptoms mean you should return urgently. Ask how itching, swelling and nutrition can be managed safely.