Treatment of Yellow Eye Disease and Retinal Disease

The eye is one of the most delicate and important sensory organs of the human body. This structure, which provides the sense of sight, is formed by the combination of many different tissues and is highly vulnerable to external factors. Changes in eye color, vision loss, pain, or other symptoms can be signs of significant health problems. In this article, we will explain in detail two common eye problems that people are often curious about: Yellow Eye Disease and Retinal Disease.

What Is Yellow Eye Disease?

Yellow Eye Disease is a condition characterized by the yellowing of the whites of the eyes (sclera). Medically known as jaundice (icterus), this condition is often associated with an increase in a substance called bilirubin in the body. Bilirubin forms during the breakdown of red blood cells and is eliminated by the liver. If there is a disruption in this process, bilirubin accumulates in the blood, leading to yellowing of the eyes.

Yellow Eye Disease does not always develop due to an eye condition. On the contrary, it is often related to an underlying systemic disorder. Therefore, when yellowing of the eyes is noticed, not only the eyes but also the overall health of the body should be evaluated. Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that the presence of yellowing in the eyes should be taken seriously.

What Is Retinal Disease?

Retinal Disease refers to conditions affecting the retina, the layer at the back of the eye that detects light and converts it into nerve signals. The retina is one of the most critical structures of the visual system, transmitting images to the brain. Thus, any damage to this area directly impacts visual function.

Retinal Disease can include a variety of clinical conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, retinal detachment, and retinitis pigmentosa. Each develops for different reasons and requires different treatment approaches. However, they share one important characteristic: most progress silently and, if not treated in time, can lead to permanent vision loss.

Causes of Yellow Eye Disease

Liver Diseases
Yellow Eye Disease most commonly occurs in association with liver-related conditions. Hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver failure disrupt bilirubin metabolism and cause yellowing of the eyes. Viral hepatitis (Hepatitis A, B, C) often presents with this symptom.

Bile Duct Obstructions
Gallstones or tumors can block the flow of bile into the intestines. In this situation, bilirubin re-enters the bloodstream, causing yellowing of the eyes.

Blood Disorders
In hemolytic anemias, where excessive red blood cell breakdown occurs, bilirubin production increases, which can lead to yellowing of the sclera.

Newborn Jaundice
Since the liver is not fully developed in newborns, temporary Yellow Eye Disease is common. It usually resolves spontaneously within a few days.

Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol use damages the liver and contributes to the development of Yellow Eye Disease.

Certain Medications
Some medications have toxic effects on the liver, leading to yellowing of the eyes. Long-term use of antibiotics or acetaminophen should be monitored carefully.

Causes of Retinal Diseases

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Common in individuals over 60, this condition affects central vision. Tasks that require detailed vision, such as reading or recognizing faces, may become difficult. Genetic predisposition, smoking, and hypertension are significant risk factors.

Diabetic Retinopathy
Long-term diabetes damages the blood vessels of the retina, leading to a serious condition known as diabetic retinopathy. As the disease progresses, it can result in retinal bleeding, macular edema, and retinal detachment. Op. Dr. Diclehan highlights that early detection of diabetic retinopathy can prevent significant vision loss.

Retinal Detachment
This occurs when the retina separates from the underlying layer and requires emergency intervention. Symptoms include sudden vision loss, flashes of light, and the sensation of a curtain falling over the eye. Eye injuries, high myopia, and previous eye surgeries increase the risk.

Retinitis Pigmentosa
This is a genetic retinal disease characterized by progressive night blindness and narrowing of the visual field. It can advance to complete blindness.

Hypertensive Retinopathy
High blood pressure increases pressure in the retinal vessels, causing narrowing, bleeding, and potential vision loss.

Eye Trauma
Blunt injuries, foreign objects, or surgical procedures can damage the retina, eventually leading to retinal disease.

Symptoms of Yellow Eye Disease

• Yellowing of the sclera
• Yellowing of the skin
• Darkening of urine
• Light-colored stools
• Fatigue and weakness
• Itching
• Abdominal pain (especially in the upper right quadrant)

When these symptoms occur together, liver function and bile ducts should be urgently evaluated.

Symptoms of Retinal Diseases

• Blurred vision
• Night blindness
• Flashes of light
• Floaters in vision
• Narrowing of the visual field
• Dark or blurry spots in the center of vision
• Sudden vision loss

If these symptoms appear suddenly, immediate consultation with an eye doctor is necessary. Op. Dr. Diclehan warns that in retinal diseases, time is critical, and delays can lead to permanent blindness.

Diagnosis of Yellow Eye Disease

• Liver function tests (ALT, AST, Bilirubin levels)
• Complete blood count
• Ultrasonography (liver and bile ducts imaging)
• CT or MRI
• Viral hepatitis tests

These tests help determine the cause of Yellow Eye Disease.

Diagnosis of Retinal Diseases

• Fundus examination
• OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)
• Fluorescein angiography
• Visual field tests
• Fundus photography

These methods allow detailed imaging of retinal damage, bleeding, swelling, and structural changes.

Treatment Methods

Treatment of Yellow Eye Disease
The treatment depends on the underlying cause

• Antiviral medications for hepatitis
• Surgery for gallstones
• Alcohol cessation for alcohol-related cases
• Discontinuation of liver-toxic drugs

Supportive measures include

• Liver-protective medications
• Balanced nutrition
• Adequate hydration

Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that yellowing of the eyes should prompt a comprehensive evaluation of overall body health, not just the eyes.

Treatment of Retinal Diseases
The treatment varies according to the type and severity of the condition

• Diabetic retinopathy: Anti-VEGF injections, laser photocoagulation, vitrectomy
• Macular degeneration: Anti-VEGF therapy, vitamin supplements
• Retinal detachment: Emergency surgery (pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckling, vitrectomy)
• Hypertensive retinopathy: Blood pressure control
• Retinitis pigmentosa: Genetic counseling and supportive treatments to slow progression

Op. Dr. Diclehan points out that technological advancements provide significant advantages in the treatment of retinal diseases, but early diagnosis remains the most crucial factor.

Prevention Methods

Preventing Yellow Eye Disease

• Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
• Maintain hygienic food practices (to reduce hepatitis risk)
• Regular liver check-ups
• Use medications under medical supervision
• Avoid exposure to toxic substances

Preventing Retinal Diseases

• Control blood sugar and blood pressure (to reduce the risk of diabetes and hypertension-related damage)
• Regular eye examinations (at least once a year for high-risk groups)
• Protect the eyes from trauma
• Maintain a healthy diet rich in omega-3 and antioxidants
• Avoid smoking

The Importance of Eye Health

Our eyes are not only organs that allow us to perceive the outside world but also reflect the overall health of our body. While Yellow Eye Disease often signals a systemic health problem, Retinal Disease directly threatens our vision.

For this reason, to protect both our systemic health and visual quality, it is essential to take symptoms seriously, not skip regular check-ups, and be mindful of risk factors. Op. Dr. Diclehan emphasizes that early diagnosis, regular follow-ups, and conscious lifestyle habits are indispensable for maintaining eye health.