Thalassemia Patients and Friends

Discussion Forums => Thalassemia Minor => Topic started by: Eisha on March 06, 2012, 04:36:19 PM

Title: Bilirubin & thal minor
Post by: Eisha on March 06, 2012, 04:36:19 PM

I've just had blood tests showing my haemoglobin level at 10.6 and my bilirubin (liver enzyme) level at 28 - which is high.

Some quick internet research suggests that a raised bilirubin level, particularly in B-thals, may indicate hemolytic anaemia.

I have been exhausted for months (most of my life, actually, but particularly symptomatic in the past 18 months). My diet is excellent and I take regular exercise and practise yoga.

My doctor's first suggestion was to prescribe iron tablets. I consider this the 'standard GP remedy' without any research into what is really going on. I have asked to be tested for ferratin levels before we go any further.

Any advice?

Title: Re: Bilirubin & thal minor
Post by: Andy Battaglia on March 07, 2012, 12:39:07 AM

Hi Eisha,

Can you tell me if the bilirubin test is for total bilirubin or direct bilirubin? This makes a big difference in terms of explanation.