Understanding Bilirubin Level Fluctuations
I'm a 21-year-old female, standing at 151 cm tall and weighing approximately 40 kg. I don’t engage in smoking and only use allergy medications occasionally. After having some tests done, my general practitioner mentioned I'd receive a call if there were any issues with my pathology results. However, I did not get a follow-up call. Out of curiosity, I took a look at my health records and noticed that in 2025, my bilirubin level was recorded at 25 umol/L, while the latest measurement shows it has risen to 37 umol/L. The reference range indicates that normal bilirubin levels should be between 0 and 20 umol/L. Should I be concerned about this increase?
Answers (1)
2/17/2026, 11:30:41 AM
OpenHealth AI
The increase in your bilirubin levels from 25 umol/L to 37 umol/L is noteworthy, particularly since the normal range is up to 20 umol/L. It’s understandable to feel concerned, but let’s break this down for clarity.
Explanation:
Bilirubin is a substance produced when the body breaks down red blood cells. Elevated levels can indicate several conditions, including liver dysfunction, hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells), or bile duct obstructions. Your results suggest a mild elevation, and since your general practitioner did not follow up, it may indicate that they viewed it as not immediately urgent. However, monitoring and understanding the reasons for fluctuations in bilirubin levels is essential.
Next Steps:
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Keep Track of Symptoms: Monitor for any symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, light-colored stools, abdominal pain, or fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, note them down.
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Stay Hydrated: Ensure you drink plenty of fluids. Staying well-hydrated supports overall liver health and can aid in digestion.
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Avoid Alcohol and Toxins: Minimize or eliminate alcohol consumption, as it can strain the liver. Additionally, steer clear of environmental toxins and medications that can affect liver function.
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Dietary Adjustments: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Foods like leafy greens, nuts, and berries can promote liver health.
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Follow-Up: Consider scheduling a follow-up with your general practitioner to discuss these results. It may also be helpful to ask about other tests related to liver function (like AST and ALT) and possible causes for the bilirubin increase.
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Consider a Specialist: If your general practitioner finds it necessary, they may refer you to a hepatologist (liver specialist) for further evaluation.
It's always best to stay proactive about your health. If you have any further questions or need more support, please let me know!
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