What are the implications of high total bilirubin levels?
Disease description:
I went to the hospital for a checkup recently, and the results indicated that my total bilirubin level was too high. I'm not sure what this means, so I would like to ask the doctor what problems can be caused by elevated total bilirubin levels?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Elevated total bilirubin levels may indicate various health issues, mainly including:
1. Risk of jaundice: High total bilirubin levels can lead to jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and sclera. This is usually associated with excessive red blood cell destruction or decreased liver capacity to process bilirubin.
2. Liver and biliary diseases: Elevated bilirubin levels may suggest problems with the liver or biliary system, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, or bile duct obstruction. These conditions require further examination and diagnosis.
3. Hemolytic jaundice: When there is significant red blood cell destruction, such as in transfusion reactions or hemolytic anemia, total bilirubin levels rise, which may be accompanied by conditions such as pernicious anemia.
4. Symptomatic manifestations: In addition to jaundice, patients may experience symptoms such as indigestion, muscle and joint pain, which can vary depending on the underlying disease.
Elevated total bilirubin levels may be indicative of various diseases. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention to determine the underlying cause through further testing and to implement appropriate treatment measures.
