What are the causes of elevated indirect bilirubin?

Generally, elevated indirect bilirubin levels may be caused by excessive alcohol consumption, strenuous exercise, hemolytic anemia, Gilbert's syndrome, viral hepatitis, and other factors. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely treatment at a regular hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol can irritate the liver and affect its bilirubin metabolism function, preventing indirect bilirubin from being properly converted and excreted, thereby causing elevated levels. Alcohol consumption should be stopped immediately to avoid further liver damage. Drinking more warm water daily can promote metabolism and help the liver recover normal function. Maintaining a light diet can also reduce the burden on the liver.

2. Strenuous Exercise

During strenuous exercise, the body is in a high metabolic state, and red blood cells may be damaged to some extent, releasing more bilirubin. The liver may not be able to metabolize it in time, leading to elevated indirect bilirubin levels. Rest well after exercise, avoid high-intensity workouts, and choose mild forms of exercise such as walking or jogging.

3. Hemolytic Anemia

Hemolytic anemia causes massive destruction of red blood cells, releasing bilirubin faster than the liver can metabolize, resulting in elevated indirect bilirubin levels. Symptoms may include pale complexion and fatigue. Medications such as folic acid tablets, vitamin B12 tablets, and ferrous succinate tablets should be used under the guidance of a physician.

4. Gilbert's Syndrome

Gilbert's syndrome is a common hereditary disease in which reduced activity of glucuronyl transferase in the liver affects the metabolism of indirect bilirubin, causing its levels to rise. This condition may worsen after fatigue or infection. If bilirubin levels are significantly elevated, medications such as phenobarbital tablets, ursodeoxycholic acid capsules, and adenosylmethionine enteric-coated tablets may be used under medical supervision to promote bilirubin metabolism. Regular follow-up liver function tests are necessary to monitor bilirubin changes.

5. Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis damages liver cells and impairs the liver's ability to take up, convert, and excrete indirect bilirubin, leading to elevated levels. Symptoms may include loss of appetite and jaundice. Antiviral treatments such as entecavir dispersible tablets, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablets, and tenofovir alafenamide tablets should be administered under medical supervision.

In daily life, it is important to develop good habits, avoid staying up late and excessive fatigue; maintain a balanced diet, eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, and consume less greasy and spicy food; and undergo regular liver function tests to detect and address abnormalities promptly.