Elevated Liver Enzymes
What does it mean to have elevated liver enzymes?
Elevated liver enzymes indicate that the levels of liver enzymes in your blood are higher than normal. This is often a sign of inflamed or damaged cells in the liver. This may be a temporary condition or could signal an underlying health issue such as hepatitis or liver disease. In some cases, certain medications may also lead to increased liver enzyme levels.
What are liver enzymes?
Liver enzymes are proteins that help your body carry out important chemical tasks more quickly. These include making bile to help with digestion, helping your blood clot, breaking down food and toxins, and fighting off infections.
Common liver enzymes include:
ALP - Alkaline phosphatase
ALT - Alanine transaminase
AST - Aspartate transaminase
GGT - Gamma-glutamyl transferase
When your liver is injured, it releases enzymes into your blood. Most commonly, AST or ALT.
How and why are elevated liver enzymes tested?
A liver function test (also known as a liver panel) is a type of blood test. This test may be ordered during a regular checkup if you show risk factors for liver disease or liver injury or if symptoms of liver damage are present.
What are the causes of elevated liver enzymes?
There are various causes including liver disease, medications, certain medical conditions and infections. Talk to your hepatologist about your specific situation.
What are the symptoms of elevated liver enzymes?
- Abdominal (stomach) pain
- Dark urine
- Fatigue
- Itching
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Jaundice
- Light-colored stools
How are elevated liver enzymes treated?
Treatment for elevated liver enzymes depends on the cause. In about a third of cases, people with elevated liver enzymes will see them return to normal levels after a few weeks. In the case that your liver enzymes stay high, your provider will likely order more diagnostic testing such as blood tests and/or imaging. Determining the cause will determine the treatment.
How can you lower your risk of elevated liver enzymes?
There are many steps you can take to keep your liver healthy to prevent elevated liver enzymes. (There are some medical conditions which cause a rise in liver enzymes and cannot be prevented)
- Eat a healthy diet
- Watch your weight
- Avoid alcohol or drink in moderation
- Exercise regularly
- Manage blood sugar levels (if diabetic)
- Get vaccinated against hepatitis A & B
- Don't share needles or any items that may have blood contamination
- Get approval from your provider for all medications & supplements