It's not advisable to live with high bilirubin levels without seeking medical attention.
High bilirubin levels in the blood can indicate an underlying health issue that requires medical evaluation and management. The reference indicates that:
It's normal to have low bilirubin levels in your blood. High bilirubin levels can cause jaundice and be a sign of an underlying condition. Several of these conditions, such as cirrhosis and hepatitis, may be serious and need medical attention.
Here's a breakdown of why high bilirubin is concerning:
What is Bilirubin?
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is formed during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. The liver processes bilirubin, which is then excreted through bile.
Why are High Bilirubin Levels a Problem?
Elevated bilirubin levels can lead to several issues:
- Jaundice: This is the yellowing of the skin and eyes, a visible sign of high bilirubin.
- Underlying Conditions: As the reference notes, high bilirubin can indicate more serious conditions such as:
- Cirrhosis: A severe form of liver scarring.
- Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver, often caused by viral infections.
- Other liver or gallbladder diseases: These may disrupt the normal processing and excretion of bilirubin.
- Hemolytic anemia: This condition involves excessive destruction of red blood cells.
What Should You Do If You Have High Bilirubin?
If you suspect you have high bilirubin (e.g., yellowing of skin and eyes), it's important to:
- See a doctor: They can diagnose the underlying cause of high bilirubin with blood tests and other relevant investigations.
- Follow medical advice: Treatment depends on the specific cause and may include medications, lifestyle changes, or other interventions.
- Do not ignore it: High bilirubin levels can be a sign of serious conditions that need prompt and appropriate medical care.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Normal Bilirubin | Low levels in the blood. |
| High Bilirubin | Can cause jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes), indicate underlying conditions like liver diseases (cirrhosis, hepatitis), gallbladder diseases, or hemolytic anemia. |
| Action Needed | Seek medical evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment if you suspect you have high bilirubin. Ignoring it can lead to complications. |
It is crucial to get a proper diagnosis and treatment from a doctor rather than attempting to live with high bilirubin.
