10 Pancreatitis Symptoms
Symptom #7: Jaundice
Jaundice can be defined as the yellowish pigmentation of the skin, mucous membranes and sclera of the eyes due to high levels of bilirubin in the blood. There are many causes of jaundice which range from mild to fatal conditions. Jaundice can occur when there is excessive red blood cell breakdown, consumption of certain foods, side effects of medications, gallstones, pancreatitis, leptospirosis, and more.
One important cause of jaundice in pancreatitis is the obstruction of the bile duct by calculi impacted in the choledochus or ampulla. Another cause of duct obstruction is the stenosis of the bile duct (i.e. in chronic pancreatitis). Enlargement of the inflamed head of the pancreas, and the presence of fibrosis or pseudocysts can also produce jaundice.
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