Gilbert’s syndrome is a common, harmless liver condition in which the liver doesn’t properly process bilirubin. Bilirubin is produced by the breakdown of red blood cells. Gilbert’s syndrome is inherited. Your liver breaks down old red blood cells into compounds, including bilirubin, which are released in feces and urine. If you have Gilbert’s syndrome, bilirubin builds up in your bloodstream, causing a condition called hyperbilirubinemia.

Gilbert syndrome is usually recognized in adolescence. If people with this condition have episodes of hyperbilirubinemia, these episodes are generally mild and typically occur when the body is under stress, for instance, because of dehydration, prolonged periods without food (fasting), illness, vigorous exercise, or menstruation. Some people with Gilbert syndrome also experience abdominal discomfort or tiredness.

Symptoms

• Yellowing of the skin and white parts of your eyes (jaundice)
• Nausea and diarrhea
• Slight discomfort in your abdominal area
• Fatigue

If you have Gilbert’s syndrome, you might notice these symptoms more if you do things that can further increase your bilirubin levels, such as:

• Experiencing emotional or physical stress
• Exercising vigorously
• Not eating for a long period of time
• Not drinking enough water
• Not sleeping enough

There are also several lifestyle changes you can make to help prevent symptoms, including:

• Get plenty of sleep. Try to sleep seven to eight hours a night. Try following a consistent routine as closely as you can.
• Avoid long periods of intense exercise. Keep strenuous workouts short (under 10 minutes). Also, try to get at least 30 minutes of light to moderate exercise each day.
• Stay well hydrated. This is especially important during exercise, hot weather, and illness.
• Try relaxation techniques to cope with stress. Listen to music, meditate, do yoga or try other activities that help you relax well.

Gilbert’s syndrome

Gilbert Syndrome and the Development of Antiretroviral Therapy–Associated Hyperbilirubinemia