Concerns Over Liver Health and Increasing Symptoms
**Background**: I am a 23-year-old trans male who has struggled with binge drinking intermittently for about four years. The situation escalated significantly in 2023 and 2024, with almost nightly drinking after dinner. Since developing gastritis-like symptoms and encountering some personal challenges, I attempted to reduce my alcohol intake. From June 2024 onward, I established a pattern where I consume alcohol on payday, purchasing a liter of vodka or rum and mixing it with soda to drink until I feel exhausted. Generally, it takes me 5 to 6 nights to finish a bottle before I remain abstinent for the other half of the month, repeating this cycle biweekly. **Recent Health Issues**: Lately, I've been facing a troubling set of symptoms—extreme fatigue, itchy skin, unexplained bruises on my legs, episodes of vertigo, cloudy orange-yellow urine, and memory issues. Initially, I attributed these to dehydration or anemia, but a sudden thought prompted me to search for answers online. Anxiety has consumed me lately, and my appetite has greatly diminished. I've found myself visiting emergency and urgent care services repeatedly. My urine tests have indicated a urinary tract infection due to traces of nitrites, and though my liver and kidney tests were predominantly normal, I did note elevated levels of bilirubin—something I expect due to Gilbert's Syndrome—along with a slight presence of white blood cells. **Review of Blood Test Results**: Perusing past blood tests has shown a gradual rise in certain indicators since 2020, which has fueled my anxiety regarding what this may signify. I have made the decision to abstain from alcohol completely moving forward, yet I cannot shake the fear that irreversible damage may have already been done to my body. The overwhelming dread is almost paralyzing. **Test Results Summary**: - **November 10, 2020**: Total protein: 74 g/L, Bilirubin: 37 µmol/L, ALT: 10 U/L - **January 11, 2021**: Total protein: 71 g/L, Bilirubin: 32 µmol/L, ALT: 9 U/L - **September 2, 2021**: Total protein: 77 g/L, Albumin: 45 g/L, Bilirubin: 27 µmol/L, Alkaline phosphatase: 77 U/L, ALT: 13 U/L - **October 26, 2022**: Total protein: 77 g/L, Bilirubin: 18 µmol/L, ALT: 13 U/L - **August 9, 2023**: Total protein: 76 g/L, Albumin: 46 g/L, Bilirubin: 33 µmol/L, Alkaline phosphatase: 75 U/L, ALT: 16 U/L - **December 29, 2023**: Total protein: 76 g/L, Bilirubin: 28 µmol/L, ALT: 15 U/L - **September 5, 2024**: Total protein: 73 g/L, Albumin: 44 g/L, Bilirubin: 13 µmol/L, Alkaline phosphatase: 68 U/L, ALT: 23 U/L - **September 28 (after drinking prior to the test)**: Total protein: 73 g/L, Albumin: 42 g/L, Bilirubin: 23 µmol/L, Alkaline phosphatase: 72 U/L, ALT: 25 U/L The combination of these thoughts, fears, and findings has left me feeling extremely uneasy and on edge. My anxiety about my health is overwhelming, and I feel nauseous just contemplating these developments.
Answers (1)
3/28/2025, 10:01:15 PM
OpenHealth AI
I understand you're feeling very anxious about your health, especially given your recent symptoms and history of alcohol use. It's encouraging to hear that you've decided to abstain from alcohol moving forward, as this can significantly contribute to your health improvements. Let's break this down into manageable steps to address your concerns and take action regarding your health.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms, including fatigue, itchy skin, bruising, and changes in urine color, might be linked to your past alcohol consumption and current health issues.
- It’s essential to prioritize abstaining from alcohol and seek supportive resources to manage your health and anxiety.
- Understanding your lab test results and focusing on your overall well-being is critical at this point.
Explanation:
The symptoms you mentioned can stem from several sources, including your drinking history and potential liver stress. Elevated bilirubin levels, while you mentioned having Gilbert’s Syndrome (often benign), can sometimes indicate liver strain if coupled with symptoms and drinking patterns. The fact that you've experienced symptoms like extreme fatigue, bruising, and memory issues calls for close monitoring.
While the trend in your liver enzymes seems stable or only slightly elevated, your history of binge drinking can still put stress on your liver. The feeling of overwhelming anxiety about potential damage is understandable, and addressing this anxiety is crucial as you navigate your health.
Next Steps:
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Immediate Action on Alcohol Abstinence:
- Commit to a total abstinence plan from alcohol. Removing it completely is a significant step for your liver health and overall well-being.
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Manage Anxiety:
- Consider engaging in activities that can reduce anxiety, such as regular physical exercise, mindfulness practices (like meditation), or hobbies that you enjoy. If you find it difficult to manage on your own, a therapist or support group can be beneficial.
- Seek trusted resources for coping strategies (such as apps or local community programs focused on mental health).
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, especially noting any changes in energy levels, skin appearance, and urination. This can help clarify any patterns and will be useful if you need to discuss with a healthcare provider later on.
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Stay Hydrated and Nourished:
- Aim to stay well-hydrated and maintain balanced nutrition. Consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats can support your overall recovery. A balanced diet also helps in managing both liver health and anxiety.
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Follow-Up Tests:
- Schedule regular follow-ups for blood tests to monitor your liver function and any other related health indicators. This can provide reassurance and important feedback on your recovery.
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Reach Out for Support:
- Speak to a medical professional who specializes in addiction or liver health. Getting professional guidance regarding your symptoms and mental health can be reassuring.
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Education about Your Health:
- Educate yourself about Gilbert’s Syndrome and how it might intersect with your current health and lifestyle. Understanding your body can reduce anxiety and help in making informed health decisions going forward.
It’s clear that you are taking steps towards a healthier future by deciding to abstain from alcohol, which is commendable. You have the opportunity to heal and improve your overall health by following these steps. Remember, focusing on one day at a time can also alleviate feelings of being overwhelmed.
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