kollatõbe

Kollatõbi, also known as jaundice, is a medical condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin, sclera (the white part of the eyes), and mucous membranes. This yellow discoloration is caused by an elevated level of bilirubin in the blood, a yellow pigment produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells.

When the liver is functioning properly, it processes bilirubin and eliminates it from the body. However, if there is an excess production of bilirubin, the liver cannot keep up, or if the bile ducts are blocked, bilirubin can build up in the bloodstream, leading to jaundice.

There are several underlying causes for elevated bilirubin. These can include liver diseases such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, obstruction of the bile ducts by gallstones or tumors, and certain conditions that cause increased red blood cell breakdown, like hemolytic anemia. In newborns, a common and often temporary form called physiological jaundice occurs because their livers are still developing.

The treatment for jaundice depends entirely on its underlying cause. For instance, gallstones causing obstruction would require removal, while liver inflammation might be managed with medication or lifestyle changes. Mild cases, especially in newborns, may resolve on their own without specific treatment. Persistent or severe jaundice, however, can indicate a serious medical issue and requires prompt medical attention to diagnose and manage the root cause.