Q. What are jaundice and melena?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
Jaundice and melena are two medical conditions that can have a significant impact on a person's health. Jaundice is a yellow discoloration of the skin, whites of the eyes, and mucous membranes caused by an increase in bilirubin levels. It is usually caused by liver or gallbladder disease and can result in fatigue, itching, abdominal pain, loss of appetite and dark urine.
Melena is another medical condition that causes black or tarry stools due to digested blood being present in the stool. This condition typically occurs when there is bleeding from higher up in the gastrointestinal tract such as ulcers or cancerous tumors. The presence of melena may indicate an underlying medical condition such as gastritis or peptic ulcer disease which requires urgent medical attention.
Both jaundice and melena are very serious conditions that require prompt diagnosis and treatment for effective management. If you experience any symptoms associated with either one it’s important to see your doctor right away for proper diagnosis and care to protect your health long-term.
Related Questions
-
What are the early warning signs of a stroke, and how can you recognize them? | Secondmedic
-
Could you explain the impact of lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, on childhood heart disease? | Secondmedic
-
What is cardiology, and why is it important in healthcare? | Secondmedic
-
What is the role of medication in managing atrial fibrillation, and what are some common medications used? | Secondmedic