5. Bile Duct Inflammation
If the bile ducts become inflamed, they can cause an increase in bilirubin levels. The bilirubin builds up and is unable to drain properly. When it finally does drain it can send an increased level throughout the body. The inflamed bile ducts block the bile and cause the liver to stop functioning as it should. Bile duct inflammation can be caused by many things, but infections and cancer are the two most common causes.
The symptoms of bile duct inflammation can also vary. In many cases, the condition is only diagnosed after a person has complained of the symptoms of increased bilirubin levels. If the infection doesn’t clear up on its own, antibiotics may be prescribed. Once the inflammation has been treated, the liver can heal and be able to regular the bilirubin levels properly. If there is cancer-causing the inflammation or another problem, surgery may be needed to treat the problem.