Why are the whites of my eyes yellow?

Why Are the Whites of My Eyes Yellow?

The whites of your eyes, also known as the sclera, are usually a healthy shade of white. However, in some cases, the sclera can take on a yellowish hue. This condition is known as scleral icterus. In this article, we will explore the possible reasons behind yellow whites of the eyes and how to address the issue.

What Causes Yellow Eyes?

There are several reasons why the whites of your eyes may turn yellow. Some of the most common causes include:

Jaundice: Jaundice is a medical condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and eyes due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a waste product that is produced by the breakdown of old red blood cells. When there is an overload of bilirubin in the body, it can cause yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Liver and Gallbladder Issues: The liver and gallbladder play a crucial role in the digestion and metabolism of fats. If these organs are not functioning properly, it can lead to the buildup of bilirubin in the blood, causing yellow eyes.
Pancreatic or Intestinal Issues: Problems with the pancreas or intestines can also lead to the buildup of bilirubin in the blood, resulting in yellow eyes.
Alcohol Consumption: Excessive consumption of alcohol can damage the liver and lead to jaundice, resulting in yellow eyes.
Diabetes: Diabetes can cause yellow eyes due to the buildup of glucose in the blood, which can lead to damage to the liver and kidneys.

How to Fix Yellow Eyes?

If you suspect that your yellow eyes are caused by a medical condition, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. In the meantime, here are some lifestyle changes that may help to reduce the yellowing of the eyes:

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help to flush out toxins and bilirubin from the body, reducing the yellowing of the eyes.
Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help to support the liver and gallbladder, reducing the risk of jaundice and other related conditions.
Quit Smoking: Smoking can damage the liver and gallbladder, increasing the risk of jaundice and yellow eyes. Quitting smoking can help to reduce this risk.
Manage Diabetes: Maintaining good blood sugar control can help to reduce the risk of yellow eyes associated with diabetes.

At-Home Tests for Yellow Eyes

If you are concerned about the yellowing of your eyes, you can perform a simple test at home to check for jaundice:

TestInstructions
The "Palm Test"Press the palmar surface of your hand with your fingers. If your skin appears yellow, it may indicate jaundice.
The "Scalp Test"Press the scalp with your fingers. If the area appears yellow, it may indicate jaundice.
The "Arm Test"Press the skin on your arm with your fingers. If the area appears yellow, it may indicate jaundice.

Conclusion

Yellow eyes can be caused by a variety of medical conditions, including jaundice, liver and gallbladder issues, and pancreatic or intestinal problems. In some cases, it may also be caused by lifestyle factors such as excessive alcohol consumption or smoking. If you are concerned about the yellowing of your eyes, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. In the meantime, making lifestyle changes and performing simple at-home tests can help to reduce the yellowing of the eyes.

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