Symptoms of Jaundice and Skin Bruising
I just turned 20 today, standing at 5 feet 8 inches and weighing 195 pounds. A couple of years ago, I had a blood test that revealed an elevated level of alanine transaminase (ALT), but I'm unsure if that contributes to my current situation. Recently, I spent the weekend at a lake with friends, where I indulged in quite a bit of drinking and soaked up too much sun. On my way home, I experienced severe nausea, and once I arrived, I discovered hives covering my upper torso and neck. I assumed it was just an allergic reaction, so I took a Claritin, and by the next day, the hives had disappeared. However, I noticed this morning that there’s a yellow tint around the lower parts and edges of my eyes. Aside from that, I feel perfectly fine—it's my birthday, and I'm in good spirits. What I'm trying to figure out is whether this yellowing could simply be a result of my activities over the weekend, or if it's indicative of a more serious issue that requires medical attention. I would appreciate any insights—thank you!
Answers (1)
6/24/2025, 10:20:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
The yellow tint around your eyes, known as jaundice, can indicate elevated levels of bilirubin in your blood, which can arise from various conditions affecting the liver, gallbladder, or red blood cells. Given your recent binge drinking, sun exposure, nausea, and previous elevated ALT levels, it’s understandable to be concerned.
Explanation:
Jaundice itself is a symptom, not a disease, and it suggests that your liver might be experiencing some strain. ALT is a liver enzyme that can indicate liver injury or inflammation. High levels can be linked to conditions such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or other liver disorders. Acute nausea could signify liver discomfort, especially after drinking alcohol.
Next Steps:
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Hydrate: Focus on drinking plenty of water to help flush your system. It’s crucial to stay hydrated, especially after alcohol consumption and sun exposure.
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Rest: Ensure you get adequate rest. Your body needs time to recover, especially after a weekend of heavy drinking.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any changes in your skin color (more widespread yellowing, for example), any new symptoms that develop, such as fever, significant fatigue, abdominal pain, or worsening nausea.
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Avoid Alcohol and Fatty Foods: For now, refrain from alcohol and limit heavy or greasy meals, as they could put additional stress on your liver.
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Consider a Follow-Up: Since you have a history of elevated ALT and current jaundice symptoms, think about scheduling blood work to check liver function as soon as possible.
If your jaundice worsens or you develop any more concerning symptoms, it's important to seek medical attention promptly. Enjoy your birthday while taking care of your health! Let me know if you need any more information or have further questions.
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