Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes

Jaundice develops when bilirubin, a yellow pigment made as red blood cells are broken down, builds up in the body. The issue may involve the liver processing bilirubin, inflammation of the liver, or a blockage affecting the flow of bile. Dark urine, pale stools, itching, nausea, tiredness, fever, or pain beneath the right ribs can give useful clues, but they do not establish the cause on their own. Gallstones and hepatitis can present with jaundice; a clinician considers the whole pattern rather than relying on colour alone.

Contact a GP or urgent care service as soon as you notice new yellowing, especially if it is becoming more noticeable. Bring a list of medicines, supplements, and recent illnesses, and mention alcohol use, travel, new foods, injections, or contact with someone who had hepatitis. Assessment may include an examination and blood or urine tests; further tests depend on the findings. Do not stop prescribed medicines unless the clinician who prescribed them advises it.

Seek urgent medical care if jaundice occurs with severe abdominal pain, fever or shaking, confusion, repeated vomiting, marked sleepiness, bleeding, or trouble staying hydrated. New jaundice in a baby also needs urgent professional assessment. These warning signs can accompany conditions that need treatment without delay. If you feel faint, severely unwell, or cannot safely travel, use local emergency services.

Ask what the initial examination suggests, which tests are being requested, and when results will be available. You can also ask whether any current medicines or supplements could affect the liver or bile flow, what symptoms should prompt urgent care, and whether you should avoid alcohol while the cause is being clarified.