A woman who was told her symptoms were 'all in her head' has been diagnosed with a genetic liver condition. Aimee Wellington, 34, from Port Talbot, south Wales, had battled exhaustion, dizziness and brain fog for nearly 20 years before finally receiving a diagnosis of Gilbert's syndrome.
Doctors repeatedly assured her nothing was wrong, with one suggesting she was 'a young, emotional woman'. 'I went home and cried,' she recalled. 'I genuinely questioned myself.' After switching GP surgeries, blood tests revealed raised bilirubin levels, leading to the diagnosis.
Gilbert's syndrome affects around 5% of the population and can cause jaundice, bloating and fatigue. There is no treatment, but Ms Wellington manages her symptoms through lifestyle adjustments. 'I can go from being extremely active to barely able to get off the sofa,' she said.
Dr Nadir Abbas, a consultant gastroenterologist, explained unprocessed bilirubin may cross into the brain, potentially causing sluggish thinking and low energy. Ms Wellington urged others to 'always push for tests' if they experience unexplained symptoms.
