Bilirubin is a yellow pigment, which is produced when old red blood cells are broken down. The liver metabolizes bilirubin so it can be excreted in bile. The presence of bilirubin is vital to human health, but when blood levels get too high, it can cause a condition called jaundice.

The term jaundice comes from the French word “jaune,” meaning yellow. Jaundice is characterized by yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. It can also cause pale stools and dark urine. The most common cause of jaundice is an increase in bilirubin.

Bilirubin is produced when hemoglobin, the molecule that carries oxygen in red blood cells, is broken down. The heme molecule in hemoglobin is converted to bilirubin by an enzyme called heme oxygenase. Bilirubin is then sent to the liver, where it is attached to another molecule called glucuronic acid. This conversion makes bilirubin water-soluble, so it can be excreted in bile.

Bile is made up of bile salts, cholesterol, fats, and waste products like bilirubin. Bile is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine during digestion. Bilirubin plays an important role in digestion and helps to break down fats.

An increase in bilirubin can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes are liver disease, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, or an obstruction in the bile ducts. Other causes can include red blood cell disorders, such as sickle cell anemia, or certain medications.

In newborns, high bilirubin levels can cause a condition called neonatal jaundice. This is a common condition that affects up to 60% of full-term infants and 80% of premature infants. Neonatal jaundice usually goes away on its own, but in severe cases, treatment may be required.

If bilirubin levels are too high, it can cause several health problems. In addition to jaundice, it can cause fatigue, loss of appetite, and itching. In rare cases, it can cause damage to the brain, which can lead to a condition called kernicterus. Kernicterus can cause developmental delays, hearing loss, and in severe cases, death.

Treatment for high bilirubin levels depends on the underlying cause. In cases of liver disease, medications and lifestyle changes may be required. In cases of neonatal jaundice, phototherapy may be used. Phototherapy involves exposing the skin to special lights, which help to break down bilirubin.

In addition to medical treatment, there are several lifestyle changes that can help to reduce bilirubin levels. These include eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding alcohol and drugs that can damage the liver.

Bilirubin is an important chemical in the body, but when levels get too high, it can cause health problems. Jaundice is the most common symptom of high bilirubin levels, but it can also cause fatigue, itching, and in severe cases, brain damage. If you are experiencing symptoms of jaundice, it is important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent serious health problems.

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