How’s Your Liver Doing? Here's a Reminder to Check In on Its Health

Problems with the liver can often go unnoticed in the early stages, as symptoms may not be immediately apparent. LFTs are thus essential because they provide important insights into how well the liver works and can help detect any underlying damage or disease. 

These tests evaluate the levels of liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin in the blood to help healthcare providers identify signs of inflammation, infection, or liver disease. 

Why do Doctors Recommend LFTs?

These tests are carried out for various medical reasons, such as 

• The presence of symptoms that suggest liver disease, such as jaundice, dark urine, abdominal discomfort, or persistent tiredness 
• A history of alcohol consumption or taking medications that may impact liver health and require monitoring 
• Being diagnosed with a chronic liver condition, such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) 
• Needing regular monitoring to manage an existing liver condition and evaluate its response to treatment 

How to Gear Up for an LFT? 

• You may need to fast for 8 to 12 hours before the test, meaning no food or beverages except water. This is especially important if your LFT is being done alongside cholesterol or blood sugar tests. 
• Let your healthcare provider know about any medications, supplements, or vitamins you are taking, as they can impact your test outcomes. 
• Steer clear of alcohol before your test, as it can compromise the test results. 

What Happens During an LFT?

• A healthcare professional will draw a blood sample using a needle, typically from a vein near your elbow. 
• In the lab, the blood sample is tested for enzymes, proteins, and other markers that provide insights into your liver health. 
• You can expect to receive your results anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days after the test. 

Understanding the Results of the LFTs:

• Albumin is a protein synthesized by the liver that helps maintain the body’s fluid balance. The ideal range is 3.5–5.0 grams per deciliter (g/dL). 
• Total Proteins—a measure of the overall concentration of proteins in the blood, including albumin and globulins, which are produced by the liver. The ideal range is 6.3–7.9 g/dL. 
• Enzymes produced by the liver are essential for supporting various chemical reactions in the body. Their ideal ranges are: 

Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): 44–147 U/L 

Alanine Transaminase (ALT): 7–56 U/L 

Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): 10–40 U/L 

Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): 9–48 U/L 

• Bilirubin is a waste product created during the breakdown of old red blood cells. The ideal range of Total Bilirubin is 0.1–1.2 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). 

Managing Abnormal Liver Test Results:

Abnormal LFT results can be caused by a variety of conditions, including but not limited to hepatitis (A, B, or C), alcoholic liver disease, NAFLD, hemochromatosis, cirrhosis, bile duct obstruction, and drug-induced liver injury. Here are some common ways these conditions are managed:   

• In cases where results are mildly abnormal because of alcohol use or fatty liver, healthcare providers may advise lifestyle improvements, including healthy eating, physical activity, weight management, and stopping alcohol consumption. 
•  If a medication is impacting your liver function, your doctor may modify the dose or prescribe a safer alternative. 
• When a condition like hepatitis or cirrhosis is identified, treatment will be tailored to manage the condition, potentially involving antiviral treatments and expert care. 

 Conclusion: 

LFTs play a crucial role in evaluating liver health by measuring important enzymes and proteins. They enable early detection of issues, assist in diagnosis, and help monitor various liver conditions. Regular testing, when recommended by your doctor, is a key step toward maintaining a healthy and functioning liver for years to come. 

SOURCE: APOLLOHOSPITALS.COM