AboutBeth , MT (ASCP) (5) Expertise I can answer questions about the purpose of a certain lab test and what an abnormal result could indicate. I cannot make a diagnosis.
Experience I recently earned my BS degree in clinical laboratory science. I did rotations in medical laboratories as a student.
Publications allexperts.com
Education/Credentials I have a BS in clinical laboratory science, with a minor in chemistry. I am certified with the American Society of Clinical Pathologists.
Question I went to the clinic because I have been feeling tired and they did a physical with some lab work. I was called today and they said everything was within the normal ranges except my bilirubin was high - 1.7 and that normal is between .1 to 1.3. They said I should repeat the test in one month. I tried to do some research on the internet, but am more confused than ever (some websites say anything over 1.1 is high another 1.9). I remember about 7 years ago that I had some lab done and they told me my bilirubin was high at that time also, I do not remember the number. It was blamed on my practice of drinking apple cidar vinegar before bedtime, which I no longer do or have done in years.
What can this mean? Should I be concerned? Could something I eat or drink affect the numbers? I was not fasting and I take ambien sometimes to help me sleep. I am a 37 year old female.
Your help is appreciated.
Thanks,
Diane
Answer Diane,
Reference ranges depend on the lab. To determine reference ranges, the lab will take samples from healthy people of a certain age. The results are averaged and a range is made. The majority of people will fall within that range. Some people however, five percent, don't fall within that range. You might be part of that five percent/your slightly high bilirubin levels might mean nothing.
Whatever the case, I don't think it is worth worry about. Get tested when your doctor thinks you should get tested. That way if something is wrong, the problem will be caught early and can be corrected. As far as ways to lower you levels, I am not aware of any. Let me know if you have more questions.
