Can high total bilirubin lead to darker urine color?

High total bilirubin may lead to darkening of urine color. Elevated total bilirubin is usually related to factors such as liver and gallbladder diseases, hemolytic diseases, etc. When the total bilirubin level in the blood exceeds the normal range, some bilirubin will be excreted through the kidneys, causing the urine to appear dark yellow or brown. Diseases of the liver and gallbladder system such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and bile duct obstruction can lead to metabolic disorders of bilirubin, causing conjugated bilirubin to reflux into the bloodstream. Hemolytic diseases such as autoimmune hemolytic anemia and hereditary spherocytosis can cause extensive destruction of red blood cells and an increase in unconjugated bilirubin production. Both of these conditions may cause changes in urine color, accompanied by symptoms such as yellowing of the skin and sclera, fatigue, and decreased appetite. When there is a slight increase, the color change of urine may not be obvious, but when the total bilirubin is significantly increased, the darkening of urine color will become a more obvious sign. Some physiological conditions, such as intense exercise or fasting, may also cause temporary mild elevation of bilirubin, but it usually does not cause significant changes in urine color. Physiological jaundice in newborns is a special physiological phenomenon, and the relationship between the degree of bilirubin elevation and changes in urine color needs to be judged based on specific numerical values.

If the urine color continues to darken, medical attention should be sought to check liver function, blood routine, urine routine, and other items to determine the specific cause of elevated bilirubin. Daily attention should be paid to observing the color changes of urine, avoiding excessive fatigue, maintaining moderate water intake, and limiting the intake of high-fat foods. If diagnosed with liver and gallbladder diseases, strict abstinence from alcohol is required, and liver protection and choleretic treatment should be carried out according to medical advice.