Gilbert Syndrome

Gilbert syndrome is a liver condition that affects its ability to process the bilirubin, and it’s a lifelong condition, but it doesn’t cause any complications.

Gilbert syndrome

Gilbert syndrome is an inherited condition that causes the liver to not get rid of bilirubin (a yellow substance that results from the breakdown of red blood cells) as it should, which makes it build up in the blood.

Gilbert’s syndrome can occur in anyone at any age, and it affects males more than females.

Causes of Gilbert syndrome

• Gilbert syndrome occurs due to a mutation in a certain gene that is responsible for making the liver enzymes that break down the bilirubin, and it’s an inherited condition.

Symptoms of Gilbert syndrome

Around a third of patients with Gilbert syndrome don’t have any symptoms. They generally include:

• Jaundice, which is the most common symptom.
• Digestive issues, such as belly pain, nausea, and diarrhea.
• Dizziness.
• Dark-colored urine or clay-colored stool.
• Loss of appetite.
• Flu-like symptoms.
• Extreme tiredness.
• Concentration problems.
• The following factors increase bilirubin levels in people who have Gilbert syndrome: stress, dehydration, infections or other diseases, extreme physical activity (overexertion), menstruation, and fasting or skipping meals.

Diagnosis of Gilbert syndrome

• Liver function tests.
• Genetic tests.

Treatment of Gilbert syndrome

• Gilbert’s syndrome doesn’t have a cure and doesn’t require any treatment. The patients might have jaundice occasionally, which resolves on its own.