What are the risks of high jaundice in adults?

Jul 09, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, during a physical examination, I found that the bilirubin level was significantly elevated. May I ask, what are the potential risks of high bilirubin levels in adults?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
High jaundice often indicates impaired liver function, which may lead to serious consequences such as cirrhosis and liver cancer. Jaundice can also cause bile stasis, potentially triggering biliary diseases such as cholecystitis and cholelithiasis. Additionally, high jaundice can easily lead to hemolytic anemia, as red blood cells rupture and release large amounts of bilirubin, decreasing iron ion levels in the blood and subsequently causing anemia. Prolonged high jaundice levels may also damage the nervous system, resulting in symptoms such as headache, insomnia, and memory loss. Moreover, high jaundice may be associated with other health problems such as cardiovascular disease and kidney disease. Therefore, adults exhibiting high jaundice levels should seek timely medical attention and treatment to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. It is also important to maintain proper nutrition and hygiene, avoid excessive fatigue and alcohol consumption, and adopt healthy lifestyle habits to protect overall health.