Changes in the eyes’ appearance can signal underlying systemic problems, including liver failure. Liver failure is a condition where the liver can no longer carry out its regular functions due to significant damage. This deterioration can manifest in various ways, including noticeable changes in and around the eyes.
The Link Between the Liver and Yellow Eyes
A common ocular sign of liver problems is a yellowing of the whites of the eyes, a condition called jaundice or scleral icterus. This discoloration is caused by a buildup of a substance called bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a byproduct created when the body breaks down old red blood cells. A healthy liver filters bilirubin from the bloodstream and incorporates it into bile, a fluid that aids digestion.
When the liver is failing, it loses its ability to effectively clear bilirubin, causing this pigment to accumulate in the blood and deposit in body tissues. The sclera, or the white part of the eye, contains a protein called elastin, which has a strong affinity for bilirubin. This attraction is why jaundice often becomes apparent in the eyes first, sometimes before the skin shows any change.
The appearance of jaundice indicates that the liver is struggling with its filtration duties. While it can be associated with less severe liver inflammation or a blockage in the bile ducts, its presence can also signify a decline in function from liver failure. Observing this yellowing of the eyes warrants investigation to understand the status of liver health.
Other Ocular Manifestations of Liver Disease
Beyond jaundice, liver disease can lead to other changes in and around the eyes. One sign is the development of xanthelasma, which are small, yellowish deposits of fat on or around the eyelids. These growths are collections of cholesterol and their presence can indicate that the liver’s impaired function is affecting its ability to regulate fats in the body.
Some liver conditions, particularly autoimmune disorders like primary biliary cholangitis, are also linked to dry or itchy eyes. The immune system mistakenly attacks the bile ducts within the liver, causing damage that leads to systemic symptoms, including ocular discomfort. This can result in a gritty feeling, redness, and blurred vision from inadequate tear production.
The liver’s role in nutrient storage means that liver failure can lead to vitamin deficiencies that impact sight. The liver is a primary storage site for vitamin A, a nutrient needed for healthy vision, particularly in low light. When liver function is compromised, vitamin A storage can be disrupted, potentially leading to night blindness or dryness of the cornea.
Associated Symptoms and Seeking Medical Attention
Ocular signs of liver failure rarely appear in isolation. They are often accompanied by a range of other symptoms that reflect the liver’s widespread influence on the body’s systems. Individuals might notice their urine becoming unusually dark, while their stools may appear pale or clay-colored. These changes are also related to the body’s inability to properly process and excrete bilirubin.
Systemic symptoms frequently include persistent fatigue, weakness, nausea, and a loss of appetite. As liver function declines, fluid may accumulate in the abdomen, causing swelling known as ascites. Another common sign is an increased tendency to bruise or bleed easily, as a failing liver cannot produce enough proteins for blood clotting.
The appearance of yellow eyes or eyelid deposits alongside these systemic symptoms signals the need for prompt medical evaluation. A healthcare provider can diagnose the underlying cause, assess the extent of liver damage, and create an appropriate management plan.