Bilirubin Direct

Also known as Bilirubin conjugated

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Understanding Bilirubin Direct

What is Bilirubin Direct?

A Bilirubin Direct test measures the direct (conjugated) bilirubin in the blood. This test is suggested if your doctor suspects a liver disorder, such as jaundice, gallstones, hepatitis, etc. It may also be done as a routine health checkup or as part of a liver function test to monitor liver health.

Bilirubin is a byproduct of broken down old or damaged red blood cells. In the liver, it is changed into direct bilirubin, which can be easily eliminated from your body. Bilirubin and other waste products turn into a fluid called bile. The bile is passed out of your body through the intestines. Bilirubin is the pigment that gives bile its distinctive yellow color.

You may need a Bilirubin Direct test if you experience symptoms suggestive of liver problems, such as the yellowing of the skin and eyes, dark-colored urine, belly pain, chest pain, lightheadedness, nausea, or vomiting. This test may also be done to monitor jaundice and neonatal jaundice in newborns. Usually, no special preparation is required for this test; eat and drink as per your daily routine.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history to help them correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The test results will help the doctor determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medication will be required to manage your liver health and formulate your overall treatment plan.

What is Bilirubin Direct used for?

A Bilirubin Direct test is done:

As part of routine health checkups.
As part of a liver function test.
To help detect liver diseases, such as jaundice or hemolytic anemia.
To monitor an existing liver disease and its treatment response.
In case of a history of excessive alcohol drinking.
In case of exposure to the hepatitis virus.
To detect and monitor neonatal jaundice.
To find out if there is a blockage in the bile duct.

What does Bilirubin Direct measure?

A Bilirubin Direct test measures the amount of direct or conjugated bilirubin present in your body. Bilirubin is a yellowish byproduct primarily produced when the body breaks down aged RBCs. When the RBCs finish their lifespan of 120 days, they break down and pass to the liver. In the liver, direct bilirubin–a form of bilirubin conjugated with glucuronic acid (sugar)–is processed, mixed with bile, and then excreted in the bile ducts and stored in your gallbladder. Finally, the bile is released into the small intestine where it is further broken down and helps digest fat. It is eventually excreted within your stool as a waste product.

Elevated levels of bilirubin can be indicative of various liver or bile duct issues. Additionally, higher bilirubin levels might result from an increased breakdown of red blood cells in the body.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Bilirubin Direct

Frequently Asked Questions about Bilirubin Direct

Q. Why is a Bilirubin Direct test done?

A Bilirubin Direct test is used to check your liver health and is done as part of routine health checkups. Your doctors may recommend this test to detect liver diseases, such as jaundice, fatty liver, hepatitis, etc.

Q. Is fasting required before a Bilirubin Direct test?

No, fasting is not required before a Bilirubin Direct test. You can eat or drink normally before the test.

Q. What are the signs and symptoms associated with high direct bilirubin levels?

You may experience symptoms such as the yellowing of your eyes and skin, swelling and pain in the belly, chest pain, lightheadedness, and fatigue when you have high bilirubin levels.

Q. What causes high direct bilirubin levels?

High direct bilirubin levels may be caused due to increased alcohol intake, infectious hepatitis, reaction to a medication, and autoimmune disorders.

Q. How can I lower my high bilirubin levels?

You must consult your doctor if your bilirubin levels are high. However, staying hydrated and increasing fiber intake in your diet by adding whole grains, berries, dry fruits, broccoli, and beans can improve your bilirubin levels.

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