The eyes are windows to the soul, but when they take on a yellowish hue, they reflect more about our health than we might realize. So, why do your eyes turn yellow? And how to get rid of yellow eyes?
Let’s seek the answers to these questions and some home remedies that will work.
Table of Contents
Why Do the Eyes Turn Yellow?
Yellow eyes, though not often a medical emergency, can be alarming and indicative of underlying health issues.
This discoloration, technically known as jaundice, can leave you feeling self-conscious and concerned.
Yellow eyes are characterized by a yellowish tint in the whites of the eyes, the sclera. This discoloration is more prominently visible when compared to the white color of the eyes.
Yellow eyes can be unsettling and present with other symptoms like yellowing of the skin, nails, and mucous membranes.
Apart from the visible changes, some individuals might also experience itching, discomfort, and fatigue, depending on the underlying cause.
What is the Root Cause of Yellow Eyes?
The primary cause of yellow eyes is the accumulation of bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells.
Usually, the liver processes and excretes bilirubin through stool from the body.
However, when the liver’s function is compromised, bilirubin builds up in the blood, leading to jaundice and the yellowing of various body tissues, including the eyes.
Here are some common root causes:
Liver Diseases
Various liver diseases can disrupt the processing of bilirubin, leading to its accumulation in the blood.
Conditions like hepatitis (viral infection of the liver), cirrhosis (scarring of the liver tissue), alcoholic liver disease (damage due to excessive alcohol consumption), and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (accumulation of fat in the liver) can all contribute to yellow eyes.
Hemolytic Disorders
Hemolysis is the excessive breakdown of red blood cells, which releases excessive bilirubin into the bloodstream.
Conditions like hemolytic anemia, thalassemia, and sickle cell disease can increase bilirubin levels, causing yellowing of the eyes and skin.
Bile Duct Obstruction
When the bile ducts that transport bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine become blocked or narrowed, it can lead to a backup of bilirubin in the liver and bloodstream. It can result from factors like gallstones, tumors, or strictures in the bile ducts.
Gilbert’s Syndrome
It is a benign genetic condition that affects the processing of bilirubin. People with Gilbert’s syndrome have mild jaundice, especially during stressful times, illness, or fasting. This condition doesn’t usually require treatment.
Pancreatic Disorders
Conditions affecting the pancreas, such as pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) or pancreatic cancer, can affect bilirubin metabolism and lead to yellowing of the eyes.
Infections
Infections such as viral hepatitis (hepatitis A, B, C, etc.) can directly affect the liver’s ability to process bilirubin, leading to yellowing of the eyes and skin.
Newborn Jaundice
Newborns often experience jaundice due to their immature liver function. It usually resolves on its own within a few weeks.
Autoimmune Disorders
Some autoimmune diseases, like autoimmune hepatitis, can cause inflammation and damage to the liver, affecting bilirubin metabolism.
Crigler-Najjar Syndrome
This rare genetic disorder impairs the liver’s ability to process bilirubin, leading to severe jaundice. It requires medical management.
How to Get Rid of Yellow Eyes with Home Remedies?
Getting rid of yellow eyes with home remedies involves focusing on supporting liver health, promoting detoxification, and adopting a lifestyle that aids in the elimination of excess bilirubin.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of effective home remedies:
Stay Hydrated
Adequate hydration is essential for overall health, including liver function.
Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins from the body, supporting the liver’s detoxification process.
Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.
Healthy Diet
A balanced diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients can promote liver health and aid in the elimination of bilirubin. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your meals.
- Leafy Greens: Vegetables like spinach, kale, and dandelion contain compounds that support liver function and detoxification.
- Turmeric: Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can benefit the liver.
- Ginger: Ginger has been shown to have hepatoprotective effects and can help reduce inflammation.
- Garlic: Garlic contains sulfur compounds that assist the liver in detoxifying harmful substances.
Limit Alcohol Intake
Dr. Muhammad Saad Aziz, a qualified Ophthalmologist with nine years of experience in the field, says alcohol can stress the liver and hinder its ability to process bilirubin effectively.
Cutting down or eliminating alcohol consumption can provide relief to an overloaded liver.
Herbal Teas
Certain herbal teas may help with liver health and detoxification.
- Milk Thistle Tea: Milk thistle contains silymarin, a compound that can protect and support the liver.
- Dandelion Root Tea: Dandelion root may help stimulate bile production and aid liver function.
Exercise Regularly
Engaging in regular physical activity improves blood circulation and supports overall liver health.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
Manage Stress
Chronic stress can impact liver function.
Practicing stress-reduction techniques such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness can help alleviate stress and benefit the liver.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity is associated with fatty liver disease and can impair liver function.
Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and exercise can support liver health.
Avoid Processed Foods
Processed foods, high in additives, preservatives, and unhealthy fats, can burden the liver.
Focus on whole, unprocessed foods for optimal liver function.
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports the immune system and detoxification processes. Citrus fruits, bell peppers, and strawberries are excellent sources.
Limit Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates
Diets high in sugar and refined carbohydrates can contribute to fatty liver disease.
Opt for complex carbohydrates and natural sugars in moderation.
Hygiene and Sanitation
Preventing infections, especially viral hepatitis, is crucial for maintaining liver health.
Practice good hygiene and avoid sharing personal items like razors and toothbrushes.
Liver-Friendly Fats
Incorporate healthy fats like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil, which provide essential fatty acids that support liver function.
Fiber-Rich Foods
High-fiber foods like whole grains, legumes, and vegetables promote regular bowel movements and help eliminate waste products, including bilirubin.
Limit Exposure to Toxins
Minimize exposure to environmental toxins and chemicals that can stress the liver. Choose natural cleaning and personal care products when possible.
When to Visit an Ophthalmologist?
Remember that while these home remedies can contribute to liver health and overall well-being, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice.
If you or someone you know experiences persistent yellowing of the eyes, it’s essential to consult a qualified ophthalmologist for proper evaluation and treatment.
Book an appointment with an eye doctor via Healthwire.
