How Can Doctors Differentiate Between Various Types of Jaundice?

Jaundice is a specific type of medical condition that is characterized by the yellowing of skin and eyes this is due to the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood, bilirubin is a yellow pigment. Usually, the bilirubin is excreted by the body after the processing of it by the liver but when there is the inability to process it it may lead to their buildup in the body. The build-up of bilirubin may be due to the failure of metabolism and that leads to the development of different types of jaundice. Remember it may be due to the underlying condition of the body which is relevant to the liver, gallbladder, or red blood cells. To get prompt treatment proper diagnosis of the type of jaundice should be done which is possible only by doctors. While you are noticing abnormal signs relevant to jaundice visit a doctor who may assist you in handling it.

Understanding the types of jaundice

There are different types of jaundice, each of their causes and clinical features will differ in that case through a proper understanding of the root cause, healthcare professionals could implement the right Jaundice treatment strategy.

Pre-hepatic jaundice 

The pre-hepatic jaundice is generally due to the breakdown of excessive amounts of red blood cells and that leads to a buildup of higher levels of bilirubin in the blood. Even though the liver functions normally it could not process that excess amount of bilirubin.

Hepatic jaundice

Hepatic jaundice is different from pre-hepatic jaundice, here the condition arises due to the dysfunction within the liver that may reduce the ability of the liver to metabolize and conjugate bilirubin. It may be as a result of liver damage or disease.

Post-hepatic jaundice 

The post-hepatic jaundice is due to the obstruction in the bile ducts it going to prevents bile along with bilirubin from being excreted into the intestines. As a result, bilirubin accumulates in the bloodstream.

How do doctors differentiate between types of jaundice?

The doctor could help you identify the jaundice you are getting affected with through the medical history and physical examination. They are going to conduct various tests and implement imaging techniques to pinpoint the type of jaundice and its underlying cause in an individual.

• The most noticeable signs of jaundice are the yellowish discoloration of the skin and the eyes doctors are going to assess the severity of the jaundice based on its extent and intensity.
• The color of the urine and darker stools are also an indication of jaundice development; it is due to the accumulation of bilirubin in the blood, which are key indicators of post-hepatic jaundice.
• The abdominal pain is also an indication of jaundice that could help in distinguishing between types. 

Blood tests

Blood tests are considered to be one of the most important steps of anything because they can help doctors know the total bilirubin level and differentiate between unconjugated and conjugated bilirubin. The higher amount of unconjugated bilirubin indicated pre-hepatic or hepatic jaundice and the conjugated bilirubin indicated either post-hepatic or hepatic jaundice.

Imaging studies

Through the imaging studies doctor can visualize the liver, gallbladder, and bile ducts. This step going to assist them in detecting the obstructions like gallstones or tumors, these obstructions may lead to post-hepatic jaundice.

To get the proper treatment there proper differentiation of various types of jaundice is important which helps in determining of type of jaundice you are affected with. Through the careful examination of a patient’s symptoms, conducting thorough blood tests, and imaging technologies, doctors can identify the underlying cause of jaundice. The delay in treatment can put your life at threat, being lethargic could not be accepted when it comes to your healthcare. While finding the difference in your skin and eye color do visit the healthcare practitioner they help you in resolving the condition and improve patient outcomes.

For effective jaundice treatment, trust GEM Hospital’s experienced specialists. Receive personalized care and advanced solutions. Schedule your consultation now for comprehensive health management.