Could This Be Jaundice?
I am a 27-year-old male, previously an occasional smoker, who recently decided to stop drinking. I'm becoming concerned that I might have cirrhosis. I've noticed a yellowish tint in the corner of my eye and I'm wondering if this indicates jaundice. My weight is around 185 lbs, and I stand at 6 feet 2 inches tall. Lately, I've experienced a dull pain in my upper right side, which alarmed me after I read that it might relate to liver issues, prompting me to quit alcohol entirely. Additionally, I suffer from frequent acid reflux, and indulging in food has led to episodes of vomiting, sometimes mixed with small amounts of blood, although this occurred infrequently and hasn’t happened lately. Since I stopped drinking a few days ago, the pain has nearly subsided. However, I am currently unable to see a doctor as I’m waiting for my insurance to activate. Today, I felt better and started to think that perhaps my concerns were unfounded. My mother, who works as a CNA, reassured me that it may not be serious. Yet, upon closer inspection of my eye, the yellow hue is still visible. After making changes to my diet and eliminating alcohol, I find myself unsure about my next steps. If this is indeed jaundice, is it an immediate health risk, or can it wait a few weeks while I remain sober?
Answers (1)
2/3/2026, 11:30:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable that you're feeling concerned about the yellow tint in your eyes and the discomfort in your upper right side. This discoloration could indeed indicate jaundice, which often occurs when there is an issue with the liver or bile ducts. Let’s unpack your situation further and outline some actions you can take.
Explanation
Jaundice is characterized by a yellowish tint to the skin and eyes, resulting from excess bilirubin in the blood, which can be tied to liver function. Your previous alcohol use, along with the pain and recent symptoms like vomiting, could suggest liver distress, but it’s important to note that some liver conditions can resolve over time with lifestyle changes, such as stopping alcohol consumption.
While you’re reporting improvement in your pain after quitting alcohol, the continued yellow discoloration is a sign that it might be wise to seek further evaluation as soon as you are able, even if you feel better overall. The occasional vomiting with blood is a signal that you should take seriously.
Next Steps
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, particularly the color of your eyes and any pain or digestive issues. This can be helpful for your healthcare provider later.
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Hydration and Diet: Stay well-hydrated and opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods, alcohol, and high-fat meals that can aggravate your acid reflux and overall health.
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Self-Care for Acid Reflux: To manage your acid reflux, consider smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding lying down soon after eating, and steering clear of spicy or fatty foods. Over-the-counter antacids may help, but it’s best to discuss any new medications with a healthcare provider when you visit.
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Plan for Medical Attention: Although you may feel better now, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation for the jaundice and any systemic symptoms like vomiting blood. If your insurance activation is delayed, consider community health clinics that might provide care on a sliding scale.
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Reassess Symptoms Promptly: If you experience worsening symptoms, such as increased abdominal pain, significant fatigue, or confusion, seek medical attention promptly.
By prioritizing these steps, you are actively managing your health and minimizing potential risks. It’s great that you've made positive changes by quitting alcohol, and continuing these efforts will support your liver health moving forward. Stay vigilant about your symptoms, and don’t hesitate to act if your situation changes.
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