1. Eat on a Regular Schedule
If you show any outward symptoms of Gilbert's disease, you can make them worse if you skip meals or become dehydrated. This hereditary liver condition, also referred to as Gilbert syndrome, causes your bilirubin levels to rise, which means you could develop jaundice. You're more likely to have an episode of jaundice when you're not eating right. Try to space out your meals evenly throughout the day, so your stomach is never empty for too long. Drink plenty of fluids, especially when you are participating in sports, or on very hot days.
2. Protect Against Colds and Flu
Bilirubin levels can also become elevated and cause jaundice when you have a cold, the flu or any other infection. Protect yourself from these viruses by getting a flu shot if recommended by your doctor, and by washing your hands frequently when you are around people who are sick. Make sure you're getting the nutrients you need and are sleeping enough, so your body won't get run down and become more susceptible to infection.
3. Get Your Stress Under Control
Stress can cause a wide variety of health issues, one of which is the raising of your bilirubin levels. Treat your Gilbert's disease by taking control of your stress. Overexertion is another factor that can cause symptoms of Gilbert syndrome, so learn how to say "no" if you generally say "yes" to every request that's made of you. Take some time out of your busy life to relax and enjoy a hobby. Pick up an exercise class to get out some of your stress in a healthy manner.
Learn not to stress about the fact that you have Gilbert's disease. This liver condition is benign and most likely will not affect your life much, if at all. Between 3 and 7 percent of the population has this disorder, and many people are not even aware of it because they don't show any symptoms.
4. Take Medication for Jaundice
Phenobarbital can help clear up jaundice by regulating your bilirubin levels. Pharmaceutical treatment for jaundice related to Gilbert syndrome is often unnecessary, as the yellowing of your skin will go away on its own. Some people may choose to take phenobarbital if they find having jaundice too emotionally distressing to wait for it to clear up over time. Speak to your doctor about this treatment possibility, as this medication sometimes has a dangerous sedative effect.
