What does high bilirubin affect?

High bilirubin can affect your body in many ways. In simple terms, bilirubin is a yellow pigment formed when red blood cells break down. It is primarily processed by the liver and excreted from the body. When bilirubin levels are elevated, it can mean there is a problem with the liver or bile duct system.

One common effect of high bilirubin is jaundice. Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, usually because bilirubin accumulates in the body and cannot be excreted normally. Imagine that it is like a clogged pipe, where water cannot flow out and eventually overflows. Jaundice not only affects appearance, but may also indicate abnormal liver function, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, etc.

High bilirubin levels can also cause digestive problems. This is because bilirubin is a component of bile, which is essential for digesting fat. If bilirubin levels are abnormal, it may affect the normal secretion and flow of bile, leading to symptoms such as indigestion, bloating, and diarrhea. This is like a broken range hood in the kitchen. The fumes cannot be discharged and the whole kitchen becomes greasy.

High bilirubin may also affect the nervous system. High levels of bilirubin, especially in newborns, may cause bilirubin encephalopathy, a serious neurological impairment that may cause permanent brain damage. It is very important to detect and treat high bilirubin promptly.

In daily life, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help maintain normal bilirubin levels. For example, you should eat more fiber-rich foods to help the liver detoxify; at the same time, maintain moderate exercise to promote blood circulation and metabolism; and avoid excessive drinking and drug abuse, as these will add burden to the liver.

High bilirubin is more than just a change in a number; it may indicate health problems inside the body. Through regular physical examinations, a healthy diet, and good lifestyle habits, we can effectively prevent and manage abnormal bilirubin levels. I hope this information is helpful to you, and remember to take care of your health!