What does hyperbilirubinemia mean?

Hyperbilirubinemia is called when the bilirubin exceeds the normal value. The normal serum total bilirubin concentration is between 1.7 and 11.1 μmol/L. If the total bilirubin exceeds 34 μmol/L, clinical jaundice will be detected, and if it is between the upper limit of the normal range and 34 μmol/L, it is called occult jaundice. Bilirubin is a waste product of the metabolism of red blood cells in the blood, mainly through the conversion of hemoglobin. Because the main component of red blood cells is called hemoglobin, the process of conversion is in the liver, so if the number of red blood cells is too high or the quality of red blood cells is faulty, it can cause blood system diseases, such as erythrocytosis or hemolytic anemia, which can cause hyperbilirubinemia due to blood system red blood cell diseases. In addition, the metabolism of red blood cells takes place in the liver, and if there are problems with the liver, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis or abnormal liver function, it can cause hyperbilirubinemia. There are also specific diseases, such as heart problems, such as heart failure, which can also cause too much blood in the liver due to heart failure, called cirrhosis after heart failure, which can also cause increased bilirubin. The biliary tract is also an important organ for bilirubin secretion and excretion, and if it is blocked, hyperbilirubinemia can also occur. Therefore, there are many causes of hyperbilirubinemia. If hyperbilirubinemia is found, regardless of physical examination or if symptoms such as jaundice, such as yellow eyes, yellow skin or obvious yellow urine are found, in such cases it is necessary to go to a hospital to see a gastroenterologist, further consult with a doctor, conduct relevant tests, make a correct diagnosis and receive timely treatment.