Gastroenterologist Dilyara Lebedeva told how to identify Gilbert's syndrome – a hereditary benign liver disease.
Gilbert's syndrome is a hereditary disease associated with a violation of bilirubin metabolism in the liver. It is characterized by a periodic increase in the level of unconjugated (indirect) bilirubin in the blood, which can lead to jaundice (yellowing of the skin and mucous membranes).
The doctor recalled that the liver removes neutralized products into the intestines with bile. This is facilitated by enzymes that convert fat-soluble toxins into water-soluble ones.
The structure and functions of the liver are not impaired in Gilbert's syndrome.
— But with this disease, all toxins, debris of building materials and nutrients are not completely removed from the body and continue to poison the body, — Lebedeva noted in her blog.
Symptoms:
- Nausea, loss of appetite;
- Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes;
- Abdominal pain;
- Stool disorders – constipation, diarrhea, pain, fat intolerance, GERD;
- Weakness, dark circles under the eyes;
- Decreased attention, anxiety, panic attacks, depression;
- Increased fatigue.
The doctor advises: to accurately identify the disease, you need to donate blood for total and indirect bilirubin. If the results are at the upper limit of the reference, then retake the test in 2-3 weeks along with other liver indicators. If it is high again, you need to do a gene test – a diagnosis is made on its basis.
Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that is formed as a result of the breakdown of hemoglobin contained in red blood cells (erythrocytes). It is an important component of metabolism in the body and plays a role in the process of eliminating waste.
Unconjugated (indirect) bilirubin is a form of bilirubin that is insoluble in water and is formed as a result of the breakdown of hemoglobin. It is transported to the liver, where it is conjugated (converted) into a water-soluble form.
Conjugated (direct) bilirubin is a form of bilirubin that has been processed in the liver and is now soluble in water. It is excreted with bile into the intestines.
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Important! Information is provided for reference purposes. Ask a specialist about contraindications and side effects and do not self-medicate under any circumstances. At the first signs of illness, consult a doctor.
Dilyara Lebedeva Medicine Gastroenterologist