Icterus is the medical term used to describe jaundice (yellow color of the skin and whites of the eyes) in humans. Jaundice can be caused by various reasons, such as diseases of the liver, bile ducts or blood.
Icteric skin and eye color is a sign that the liver cannot effectively remove bile from the body. Bile is a liquid that is produced by the liver and is essential for digestion. If the liver does not work properly, bile cannot be eliminated from the body, leading to a buildup of bile in the blood and skin.
Jaundice can have a variety of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain and itchy skin. If jaundice is not treated, it can lead to serious consequences such as cirrhosis of the liver or liver cancer.
Treatment for jaundice depends on the cause of its occurrence. In some cases, hospitalization and intensive care may be required. In other cases, lifestyle changes, such as reducing alcohol consumption and fatty foods, may be sufficient.
It is important to note that jaundice is a serious condition that can lead to life-threatening consequences. Therefore, if you notice signs of jaundice, you should immediately consult a doctor.