Overview
Liver tests are otherwise normal.
It can change how a few medicines are processed, so mention it to doctors.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Mild yellow eyes at times
- Yellow eyes only when sick, stressed, or fasting
Less common
- Tiredness
Look up a symptom: Yellow eyes only when sick, stressed, or fasting · Yellow skin or eyes
When to get medical care
Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayDark urine, pale stools, or yellow skin with belly pain or fever.
See a doctor soonNew yellowing that hasn't been checked.
Causes
An inherited gene change.
Does it spread or run in families?
- It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.
- It can run in families. Tell your doctor if a parent, brother, or sister has it.
Who is more likely to get it
- Family history
- Men
Diagnosis
Blood tests confirm it.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- Bilirubin: Mildly high, unconjugated.
- Liver tests: Normal.
Treatment
Nothing is needed.
Self-care
- Eat regular meals
- Sleep well
- Stay hydrated
Prevention
It can't be prevented.
Which doctor treats this
- Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
- They may send you to a gastroenterologist (stomach and gut doctor).
Living with it
- Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
- Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
- Stay active in ways that feel good to you.
- Get enough sleep and manage stress.
- Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.
Back to school, work, or sports
- Most people can keep working or going to school.
- Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
- Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
- Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
- Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.
For caregivers
- Go to visits when you can and take notes.
- Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
- Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
- Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.
Outlook
Harmless and lifelong.
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.