What are the risks associated with elevated bilirubin levels?
Disease description:
I recently had a physical examination and found that my bilirubin level was elevated, which has made me quite worried. Could you please tell me what are the potential risks associated with high bilirubin levels?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Gao Jun
Elevated bilirubin levels may cause various harmful effects on the human body.
1. It can lead to anemia, especially hemolytic anemia, because bilirubin binds to lipids in cell membranes, affecting red blood cell function.
2. High bilirubin levels can cause abnormal liver function, including jaundice and possible cirrhosis, affecting the normal excretion and conversion of bilirubin.
3. Bilirubin may also cross the blood-brain barrier and enter brain tissue, causing irreversible damage to the central nervous system, such as kernicterus (bilirubin encephalopathy), which manifests as vomiting, convulsions, and drowsiness.
4. Elevated bilirubin levels may also affect kidney function, leading to the accumulation of metabolic waste products, further harming overall health.
5. High bilirubin levels may also weaken immune function, increase the risk of infections, accelerate cellular aging, and potentially cause reproductive system abnormalities and skeletal problems.
Therefore, elevated bilirubin levels require timely medical attention to identify the underlying cause and implement appropriate treatment measures.
