Jaundice results from an excess of bilirubin, a yellow pigment that's a byproduct from red blood cells that have died. About 1 percent of all red blood cells die each day, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Jaundice is linked to disorders such as gallbladder stones, liver disease, pancreatic cancer, viral hepatitis and malaria. Jaundice is sometimes also present in babies born to--or breastfed by--mothers with diabetes.
Eyes, Skin, Mucous Membranes
Jaundice causes a yellow tint in the whites of the eyes, skin and mucous membranes, notes MedlinePlus. The yellow color may range from very pale and hard to notice to a strong yellow color that is quite easily visible. The eyes and skin should be observed for up to 14 days to ensure the jaundice clears and the yellow color in skin and eyes disappears.
Dark Urine
Dark urine is another effect of jaundice. This symptom is often alarming, and is often one of the first symptoms noticed when jaundice appears. It typically occurs because of bile duct blockage due to gallstones, cysts, tumors, inflamed or enlarged lymph nodes or bile ducts, and a myriad of other causes, notes MedlinePlus. Symptoms related to bile duct blockage require immediate medical care as this disorder can be life-threatening.
Change in Stool Color
Stools will often change color when jaundice is present, and may turn pale or a clay color. This change in stool color is also linked to a blocked bile duct. This symptom is often accompanied by vomiting or nausea and a fever, notes MedlinePlus.
Liver Failure
Liver failure can result from jaundice. This problem often arises suddenly and can be life-threatening, notes FloridaHealthFinder.gov.
Infants
In infants, the yellow skin tone is often first visible on the face and later appears lower on the body, notes the North Dakota Department of Health. Jaundice is a common condition in newborns, especially those that are premature, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. It will typically dissipate on its own after several weeks. However, if the infant is hard to wake up, dehydrated or has loose, greenish stools, a doctor should be notified.
