Can Jaundice Lead to Long-Term Vision Issues?

The condition commonly associated with yellowing of the skin and the eyes, jaundice, is mainly due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood. Although its impact on the liver and general health is well understood, many patients ask whether jaundice may cause permanent vision loss. This blog explores the possible correlation between jaundice and vision problems and gives understanding and professional information.

How Does Jaundice Affect the Eyes?

The most visible impact of jaundice on the eye is scleral icterus – the yellowing of the sclera or the white part of the eyes due to bilirubin accumulation. While this discoloration is normally non permanent and clears up after treatment, jaundice is dangerous to the eyes in certain circumstances.

Temporary Effects on Vision:

• Blurry Vision: Occasionally, some patients may even have transient loss of vision in the early phase of jaundice where they are fatigued or dehydrated.
• Light Sensitivity: High levels of bilirubin can cause eye sensitivity to light and this can cause discomfort.

Can Jaundice Cause Long-Term Vision Problems?

Fortunately, in most cases, jaundice clears up without any adverse effects on a person’s vision. However, if the condition persists or if the jaundice is severe, it may cause complications in the eyes if not treated.

1. Kernicterus in Neonatal Jaundice

In newborns, if jaundice is not treated, a condition known as kernicterus develops whereby high bilirubin levels affect the brain. This can affect vision in a roundabout way because of neurological abuse, which in turn results in such problems as strabismus or poor eye coordination.

2. Retinal Damage from Chronic Liver Disease

In adults, jaundice of more than 2 weeks duration due to chronic liver disease can lead to either retinal toxicity or retinal oedema. This may lead to blurring or other vision problems in the long run.

3. Vitamin Deficiency and Eye Health

Jaundice that results from liver dysfunction affects the body’s ability to absorb fat-soluble vitamins such as Vitamin A. Since Vitamin A is vital to good vision, it’s absence can lead to long-term eye complications such as night blindness.

Recognizing Symptoms of Vision Issues in Jaundice Patients

You should keep an eye on your vision while undergoing jaundice treatment and even after it. Look out for:

• Sustained hazy vision or inability to fix the eyes on an object.
• Light sensitivity that does not resolve with the healing process.
• Less peripheral vision or poor vision in the dark.
• Pain or pressure in the eyes.

If you feel this way, go see an eye doctor as soon as possible.

How to Protect Your Vision During Jaundice Recovery

It is especially important to prevent jaundice and its impact on the eyes in advance. Here’s how you can protect your vision:

1. Follow Treatment Plans
   Make sure you have your jaundice treated and follow the treatment to its completion under the supervision of a doctor. Our Jaundice treatment in Chennai is the best and the hospital ensures the patient has a full recovery.
2. Stay Hydrated
   Dehydration weakens the liver and although the eye changes are a sign of jaundice they can be reduced if one drinks enough water.
3. Maintain a Nutritious Diet
   Ensure you take foods rich in Vitamin A like carrots, spinach, and sweet potatoes to improve on the eyes.
4. Schedule Regular Eye Exams
   It will be wise to visit an ophthalmologist regularly and get your vision checked to identify any changes in vision.
5. Protect Your Eyes from UV Rays
   Wear sunglasses in order to protect your eyes from ultraviolet light, especially if they are more sensitive during jaundice recovery.

Why Choose GEM Hospital?

At GEM Hospital we believe that the wellbeing of a person is not only the absence of disease but is a state of total health. Jaundice is treated by our specialists and we also check for any impact on your vision, as is the case with some complications. Equipped with the best infrastructure and committed to providing the Best Jaundice Treatment in Chennai.

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you are experiencing vision issues, which are constant or any other signs such as persistently yellow eyes, tiredness, or stomach pain, you should seek the help of a doctor. This is because early intervention will help in avoiding further complications and thus help in the easy recovery process.

Book a Consultation

Do you have any concern that jaundice may affect your vision? GEM Hospital is a place to go for professional help and consultation. We offer the Best Jaundice Treatment in Chennai to ensure you get well again. Call us today to book a Consultation and protect your health.