Why does liver cirrhosis cause jaundice?

Cirrhosis is extensive scarring of the liver. As healthy liver cells are replaced and the organ's structure becomes altered, the liver may be less able to take up, process and release bilirubin into bile. Bilirubin can then rise in the bloodstream, producing yellowing in the whites of the eyes and skin. Changes in bile flow can contribute as well.

Jaundice is a common presentation of Liver Cirrhosis. Yellowing can also result from other liver or bile-duct problems, which is why a new change should be assessed promptly.

Tell your liver team or clinician promptly about new yellowing, dark urine, pale stools, worsening itching, abdominal swelling, fever or a change in alertness. Keep taking prescribed treatment unless your clinician changes it, and avoid alcohol. Check with a pharmacist or clinician before taking pain medicines, cold remedies, supplements or herbal preparations, since some may be unsuitable in liver disease.

Seek urgent medical care if jaundice comes with confusion, unusual sleepiness, fever or chills, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black stools, or a rapidly swollen abdomen. These can be signs of serious complications in someone with liver disease. Ask a clinician for an individual action plan if you already have cirrhosis.

Ask whether the bilirubin change suggests a flare in liver dysfunction, a bile-flow problem, infection or another cause. Discuss which blood tests and scans are useful, how to monitor fluid swelling and confusion, and which medicines should be avoided. It can also help to ask who to contact outside routine appointment hours.