Gilbert syndrome is an inherited cause of unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia, and involves symptoms of intermittent jaundice, abdominal cramps, fatigue, and malaise. The symptoms are usually precipitated by dehydration, fasting, illness, menstrual periods, and stress. Gilbert syndrome does not usually require any treatment and is not usually associated with any morbidity or mortality; hence with a confirmation of the diagnosis, the patient can be assured about its excellent prognosis. It is important to avoid the known risk factors which can precipitate this condition.
Ayurvedic treatment may be provided to reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress, as well as symptoms and related complaints in the form of abdominal discomfort and general fatigue. Ayurvedic herbal treatment involves the use of medicines which act on the liver so as to prevent or reduce recurrences of intermittent jaundice. Herbal medicines which act on the bone marrow, the blood tissue, as well as on the liver and spleen can be given for periods ranging from four to six months, in order to prevent this condition of unconjugated hyperbilirubinemia and thereby prevent recurrence of jaundice even in the presence of the risk factors mentioned above.
Ayurvedic herbal treatment can thus be given as supportive treatment to remove stress and anxiety; it can also be given as the mainstay of treatment so as to try to treat and cure this condition, and also to prevent its recurrence. Ayurvedic herbal treatment thus has a significant role to play in the management and treatment of Gilbert syndrome.
The writer, Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at www.ayurvedaphysician.com
