Jaundice: Care Instructions

Your Care Instructions

Jaundice is yellowing of your skin and the whites of your eyes. It's caused by a pigment, or coloring, called bilirubin. This comes from the breakdown of red blood cells. When your liver is healthy, it removes the pigment from your blood. But if the liver isn't working right, the pigment can build up in the blood. Then it can get into the skin and other tissues.

Many diseases can cause jaundice. These include hepatitis, gallstones, and cancer of the pancreas. Liver damage from heavy drinking over a long time can also cause it. Some medicines that can damage the liver also cause jaundice.

The treatment for jaundice depends on the cause. You may need medicine to treat an infection. Or you may need to have your gallbladder removed. Some people need to stop drinking alcohol. If another disease is causing jaundice, treating the disease will cure the jaundice. If a medicine you take is causing jaundice, your doctor may switch you to another one.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

Do not drink any alcohol until your jaundice is gone. Alcohol will damage the liver more. If your jaundice is caused by drinking alcohol, do not drink alcohol even when you are better. Tell your doctor if you need help to quit. Counseling, support groups, and sometimes medicines can help you stay sober.
Be safe with medicines. Do not take any other medicine without talking to your doctor first. This includes over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
Make sure your doctor knows all the medicines you take. Some medicines, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), can make liver problems worse.
If you have itchy skin, keep cool and stay out of the sun. Try to wear cotton clothing. Talk to your doctor about medicines that can be used for itching. Follow the instructions on the label.
Lower your activity to match your energy.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

You have severe trouble breathing.
You passed out (lost consciousness).

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

You are confused, or your confusion gets worse.
You have a fever or chills.
You have severe pain or swelling in your belly.
You are losing weight without trying.
You are vomiting or feel sick to your stomach.
Your urine is dark yellow-brown, or your stools are light-colored.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

You do not get better as expected.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.