What Is Gilbert’s Syndrome?

Gilbert’s Syndrome is a mild liver condition in which the liver doesn’t process a substance called bilirubin properly. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment that’s produced when red blood cells break down. In people with Gilbert’s Syndrome, bilirubin levels in the blood can become slightly elevated, which may cause occasional yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice). The condition is harmless and usually doesn’t require treatment.

What Causes Gilbert’s Syndrome?

Gilbert’s Syndrome is caused by a genetic mutation in a gene that helps the liver break down bilirubin. The mutation reduces the liver’s ability to process bilirubin efficiently, causing it to build up in the blood.

Key points:

• It’s inherited (runs in families)
• Caused by mutations in the UGT1A1 gene
• Not caused by liver damage or disease
• Usually discovered in late teens or early adulthood

Symptoms of Gilbert’s Syndrome

Most people with Gilbert’s Syndrome have no symptoms. However, some may experience:

• Mild jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and/or skin)
• Fatigue
• Mild abdominal discomfort
• Nausea (occasionally)

These symptoms may come and go, especially during times of:

• Illness
• Fasting or skipping meals
• Stress
• Dehydration
• Overexertion
• Menstruation

How Is Gilbert’s Syndrome Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually made through routine blood tests or when investigating unexplained jaundice.

Common tests include:

• Liver function tests – Bilirubin levels may be slightly elevated, but other liver enzymes are normal
• Genetic testing – Can confirm the UGT1A1 gene mutation
• Complete blood count (CBC) – To rule out other causes of jaundice
• No liver damage is typically found in imaging or tests

Doctors may repeat blood tests under fasting conditions to confirm the diagnosis.

Is Gilbert’s Syndrome Dangerous?

No. Gilbert’s Syndrome is benign and harmless. It does not cause liver damage, complications, or long-term health issues. Most people live completely normal lives with it.

Does Gilbert’s Syndrome Need Treatment?

No treatment is usually necessary. In fact, most people never need medical intervention. The condition is managed with lifestyle awareness, such as:

• Staying well-hydrated
• Eating regular meals
• Managing stress
• Avoiding fasting or crash diets
• Getting enough rest

Can Gilbert’s Syndrome Affect Medications?

In rare cases, people with Gilbert’s Syndrome may process certain medications more slowly. This may affect how some drugs work or increase side effects.

Drugs that may need caution include:

• Irinotecan (used in cancer treatment)
• Some HIV medications
• Certain statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs)

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have Gilbert’s Syndrome before starting a new medication.

Who Is at Risk?

Gilbert’s Syndrome affects:

• About 3% to 10% of people worldwide
• Males more often than females
• People with a family history of the condition

It’s usually discovered in adolescence or young adulthood.

Living with Gilbert’s Syndrome

For most, it has little or no impact on daily life. Things that can help include:

• Eating balanced meals regularly
• Staying hydrated
• Avoiding extreme physical stress or fasting
• Managing stress and anxiety
• Telling your healthcare provider about the condition

Jaundice may still occur from time to time, especially during illness or stress, but it usually resolves on its own.