Yellowing of the skin and eyes, often overlooked as ‘just jaundice’, may actually be your body’s first warning sign that your liver is in serious trouble. Doctors warn that ignoring it could allow a serious liver condition to silently progress until it turns life-threatening. “Hepatitis is one of the most common causes of jaundice, and it should never be taken lightly,” explains Dr. Dhruv Kant Mishra, Consultant, Gastroenterology at Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Faridabad. “It means your liver is struggling, and the earlier we act, the better the outcome.”
When jaundice signals more than fatigue
Jaundice happens when there is a build-up of bilirubin, a yellow pigment formed during digestion that a healthy liver usually clears out. While jaundice can sometimes be harmless and temporary, Dr. Mishra warns it is often the first visible symptom of hepatitis, a condition that causes inflammation of the liver.
“Hepatitis A and E are usually short-term infections caused by contaminated food or water,” Dr. Mishra explains. “They come with symptoms like fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, and jaundice. Most people recover fully with supportive care and rest.” But not all forms of hepatitis are so simple.
The silent threat of hepatitis b and c
The real danger, according to Dr. Mishra, lies in hepatitis B and C. These infections may start with mild or no symptoms, but can stay hidden in the body for years.
“Unlike hepatitis A and E, hepatitis B and C can become chronic,” he says. “If the infection lasts longer than six months, it may cause ongoing liver inflammation, leading to long-term damage.”
This slow, silent damage often replaces healthy liver cells with scar tissue, a condition known as fibrosis. If left unchecked, it can progress to cirrhosis, where more than 75 per cent of the liver tissue is scarred and the liver’s ability to function is severely affected.
“At the stage of cirrhosis, complications like internal bleeding, fluid build-up in the abdomen, confusion due to toxins, and even liver cancer can occur,” Dr. Mishra warns.
Early detection can save lives
The good news, doctors say, is that hepatitis-related liver damage is not inevitable. With early diagnosis, treatment can prevent long-term complications.
“If caught early, we can manage hepatitis B and C with antiviral medicines, lifestyle changes, and routine monitoring,” says Dr. Mishra. “Vaccinations are also available for hepatitis A and B, which can prevent the infection altogether.”
He adds that regular liver function tests are key for anyone with risk factors, such as a history of blood transfusions, unprotected sex, or long-term alcohol use.
Don’t ignore the warning signs
The challenge, experts say, is that hepatitis B and C often remain silent for years. Apart from mild jaundice, people may not notice any warning signs until serious damage has already occurred.
“Many patients are shocked when they’re diagnosed because they had no symptoms apart from occasional fatigue,” Dr. Mishra shares. “That’s why awareness and timely check-ups are so important.”
If you notice yellowing of the eyes or skin, don’t brush it off as “just jaundice.” It could be your liver asking for help.
As Dr. Mishra puts it, “Your liver works silently every day to keep you healthy. When it shows distress signs like jaundice, don’t ignore them. Seek medical advice immediately; early treatment can make all the difference.”
