Hyperbilirubinemia – Problems of high bilirubin
The yellow color of the bile is derived from bilirubin. Bilirubin is produced when the worn out red blood cells are broken down in the liver. Through the stool, it is eliminated from the body. Feces get their brownish yellow color from bilirubin. While the greater amount of bilirubin is eliminated from the body through stools, a small amount of it circulates in the bloodstream. When there is excess bilirubin in the bloodstream, hyperbilirubinemia occurs. Adults as well as infants can suffer from this condition.
Causes of hyperbilirubinemia in babies
While the fetus is developing in the womb, the placenta performs the function of bilirubin excretion from the body. After birth, the newborn’s organs are not mature enough to perform normal functions. The bilirubin level might increase in the newborn. Within a few days, the bilirubin level will return to the normal level, as the baby’s organs become mature enough to perform their normal activities. The risk of hyperbilirubinemia is greater among premature infants. If the mother suffers from diabetes or if there is Rh incompatibility between the mother and the child, hyperbilirubinemia might develop in the newborn. About 2 percent infants develop jaundice after the first week. This condition known as breast milk jaundice develops when glucuronidase, an enzyme present in the mother’s milk, prevents elimination of bilirubin.
Risks of high bilirubin in infants
Excess bilirubin in the blood of infants might travel to the brain, increasing the risk of brain damage. Phototherapy is sometimes used for breaking down the excess bilirubin in the body. If the baby is suffering from breast milk jaundice, breast milk should be replaced by formula milk for a few days.
Causes of hyperbilirubinemia in adults
Liver disorder such as hepatitis, gallstones, obstruction of bile ducts or pancreatic cancer can raise the bilirubin level in the blood. Certain medications such as antibiotics, oral contraceptives and steroids could interfere with bilirubin excretion.
Symptoms of hyperbilirubinemia
When the bilirubin in the blood rises to an abnormal high level, the skin and the white of the eyes become yellow. The stool become light in color and the color of the urine becomes dark. You might experience nausea, loss of appetite, rash, itching and fever.
