yellow eyes

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Is there anything to help produce the enzymes we need to break down bilirubin? I was diagnosed at 21 and I am a mild case accoring to my doctor, however my eyes are often jaundice and have never been white in color a day since. It gives me a complex when speaking to people I hate to look them in the eyes for fear they will say someone as people often ask. Not only that I was told by the eye doctor I dont produce enough tears so my eyes are yellow and bloodshot unless I use drops religiously. It gives me a complex and I am embarrassed. Any input would be much appreciated. Very frustrated.

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3 Replies

  • Posted

    Hi Lyndsey,

    Usually people with Gilbert's Syndrome's eyes will turn yellow several days after their billirubin level has been elevated.

    If your eyes don't produce enough tears, that's called 'dry eyes' & is quite common. Yes drops are often needed to help. I carry drops with me as I have both Gilbert's Syndrome & dry eyes.

    I would suggest you talk to a Gastroenterologist as they are more aware of GS. Although most will tell you that GS doesn't have any affect on your lifestyle; they are wrong. GS does affect ones lifestyle in that we're often bedridden or just have to lay low due to complete exhaustion.

    Probably asking to discuss the jaundice (yellowing of eyes) with a Liver Specialist would be a good idea - they can run extra blood tests to understand the affect GS is having on your liver & might be able to suggest something for you.

    Not trying to put a damper on things for you; but, I hope you limit your alcohol intake as with GS, your liver isn't working as well & alcohol intake does affect it a lot more. If you are a regular drinker & start cutting down on alcohol intake, you will find it will relieve a massive stress in your liver & hence will keep your eyes looking nice & white.

    All the best. Ive had GS for 30 yrs so understand it well.

    • Posted

      I agree with Andree steer away from alcohol!!! Goes for everyone with GS. It just doesn't help our situation.

  • Posted

    Hi Lyndsey , i was diagnosed since 15 and i am 29 now and lived with this my whole life too and i feel exactly the same, and i have developed a complex around it too. So I pursued a gastroenterologist and he has given me 20mg phenobarbital 3 times a day and the effects are noticeable. I do however always try to spot it and it is still visible during stressing times but mostly you will see an improvement! My total billirubing has dropped from 110 to 30!! So i am still 10 overboard the limit..your doctor will obviously not recommend phenobarbital but me personally i have been using them for 6 months now and i m not gonna stop!!

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