Jaundice
Jaundice can be caused by liver problems. The symptoms, the typical yellowish colouring of the skin and the whites of the eye, or dark urine, can be caused by an underlying liver condition or a bile duct problem. At The Surgeons Collective, we use our many years experience as liver specialists and hepatologists, to help you understand these underlying causes of jaundice, with an in-depth diagnosis. It's a crucial first step to organise a personalised treatment plan with our team, including the care and support you deserve.
Jaundice due to liver dysfunction or failure
Jaundice is caused by a buildup of waste material (bilirubin) in the blood. When the liver is healthy, it captures and processes the bilirubin. But when your liver is not functioning well, the substance remains in the blood, instead of being secreted into the intestine via the bile duct. When it accumulates in your skin, part of it is excreted in the urine: the skin now looks yellow, the urine looks darker and the stool looks pale. Jaundice can be caused by acute or chronic liver disease, which is why it is essential to plan a thorough investigation of your liver.
Primary Biliary Cirrhosis and Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis are two common liver diseases generating jaundice. That is why it is important to consult a hepatologist if you have any concerns about jaundice.
About Us
At The Surgeons Collective we work as a team of expert surgeons, as well as hepatologists, gastro-enterologists and accredited dietitians.
Liver surgery and associated treatments
Blockage on the biliary tract
Jaundice can also be caused by an obstruction in the bile duct. The bile duct is important because the liver uses it to excrete bilirubin to the intestine. With an obstructed bile duct, bilirubin gains access to the blood and generates the jaundice symptoms.
There are many causes of biliary tract obstruction: some are benign (such as stones), other causes are cancers of the bile ducts or cholangiocarcinoma, as well as pancreas or gallbladder cancer.
We use a range of radiological tests, to gain a full understanding of your condition, so we make a well informed decision about your treatment. Our highly experienced hepatologists and surgeons work together to recommend the most suitable treatment, depending on the exact cause of your biliary obstruction.
How can jaundice be treated?
Once your tests provide the hepatologist with detailed information, we will provide an in-depth and accurate diagnosis. It helps to advise you so our team can help you to manage the underlying cause of your liver problem, or to plan the most suitable treatment for a biliary obstruction.
Giving you that full understanding of your symptoms and the causes of your condition is an important part of our role. It is the starting point to propose a personalised treatment and care plan. You can always count on us for comfort and support, and we commit to helping you achieve the best possible outcomes.
Diet for jaundice patients
After treatment for jaundice, you should see that the symptoms resolve, and you should be able to return to your usual diet. However, if you struggle with bloating, poor appetite, or weight loss, because of an underlying disease, we will make personalised recommendations. Our dietitians work with the specialist doctors, to help you improve your diet. We believe that you deserve an integrated and coordinated treatment plan, designed to suit your personal needs.
Excellence in treatment and care
Why choose The Surgeons Collective for the treatment of jaundice or liver problems? Our key strength is our commitment to excellent clinical outcomes, with a team of experienced and highly qualified surgeons and specialists. Next, we commit to treating you with kindness and care, focusing on trusted and clear communication. This includes communication with your family and loved ones, before, during and after your treatment.
So if you have any questions about liver conditions or bile duct obstruction, or an enquiry about jaundice symptoms, please get in touch with our friendly reception team here at The Surgeons Collective in Perth.
Contact us
THE SURGEONS COLLECTIVE
McCourt St Medical Centre
Level 1, Suite 10, 2 McCourt Street
West Leederville,
Perth 6007, WA
THE SURGEONS COLLECTIVE
Monday - Thursday | 8:30am - 4:30pm
Friday | 9:00am - 1:30pm
