how bilirubin increase - #38146
I am really confused and a bit worried about my health right now. Last week during my regular check-up, my doctor mentioned that my bilirubin levels are higher than normal. Like, how bilirubin increase from one test to another? I didn't even notice anything wrong, but I’ve been feeling kind of fatigued and a bit jaundiced. I thought it was nothing, just maybe too much sun or something I ate. Now I’m reading that bilirubin increase can be linked to liver problems, and that freaks me out. I don’t drink alcohol, eat mostly healthy, but I did have a bout of an awful stomach virus a few months ago. Could that have done something? I asked my doctor, and he just suggested more tests but didn’t really explain how bilirubin levels fluctuate like this. Even now, I don’t think I’m feeling that bad, just a little yellowish and tired. Are there certain things I should be eating or avoiding? I’m just trying to understand how bilirubin increase can happen without major symptoms, or if I should be scared? My family has a history of liver issues, which makes me even more worried. Any insight would really help, thanks!
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Doctors' responses
Understanding how bilirubin levels increase can definitely be confusing, and it’s good to seek clarity through detailed explanation. Bilirubin is a yellow compound that’s part of the breakdown of hemoglobin from red blood cells. Typically the liver processes bilirubin into a form that can be excreted through bile. When the liver isn’t working properly, bilirubin level can elevate, causing conditions like jaundice, or that yellowing of the skin and eyes you might be experiencing.
There are various reasons why bilirubin levels might rise. As you mentioned a past stomach virus, it’s possible that your liver’s processings ability was temporarily impaired, especially if the virus affected your digestive system. Infections or inflammations of the liver, as well as gallstones or blockages in the bile ducts, can also contribute. Fatigue is another common sign when the liver isn’t functioning optimally, which matches what you’ve described.
Regarding lifestyle, Ayurveda suggests maintaining a diet that supports your liver’s health. Avoiding alcohol is traditionally recommended, even though you don’t consume it, continuing to limit processed food, fried foods, and reduce intake of spicy or oily dishes. Green leafy vegetables, turmeric, ginger, and foods rich in fiber could bolster liver function. Specific foods like dandelion greens or beetroot may help as well, they might support liver detox, aim to include them in meals.
Since family’s history with liver issues contributes to your worry, regular monitoring of liver functions would be prudent. Routine tests can provide insights on how your liver is coping over time. Consider also focusing on stress-reduction tehniques like yoga or deep-breathing exercises; stress can impact digestion and liver function, indirectly. Though you don’t feel acute symptoms now, it might be wise to keep monitoring and follow any further investigations your doctor suggests.

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