Elevated Liver Enzymes: Causes, Symptoms and More!

The liver may be exposed to damage or health problems leading to elevated liver enzymes. In the following article, we will explain everything related to this issue.

Elevated liver enzymes: What Does It Mean?

Liver enzymes are proteins manufactured in the liver that accelerate certain chemical reactions in the body, including bile production, substances aiding in blood clotting, breaking down food, toxins, and fighting infections. The most common liver enzymes include:

• Alanine transaminase (ALT).
• Aspartate transaminase (AST).
• Alkaline phosphatase (ALP).
• Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT).

When liver cells are damaged or inflamed, it results in elevated liver enzymes in the blood. Damaged or inflamed cells release higher amounts of liver enzymes into the bloodstream.

Although liver enzyme levels are usually mildly and temporarily elevated, not indicating chronic or severe liver problems, they warrant medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause and take necessary actions.

What Causes Elevated Liver Enzyme Levels?

Elevated liver enzymes are not a health problem on their own but are a symptom accompanying various health issues, including: 

• Fatty liver disease: Accumulation of fat in the liver, often caused by alcohol consumption. Fatty liver disease is the most common cause of elevated liver enzymes, with studies indicating that 25-51% of those with elevated liver enzymes have fatty liver disease.
• Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver caused by a virus, leading to liver damage.
• Liver fibrosis: Permanent scarring of the liver, preventing it from functioning properly.
• Alcohol or drug abuse disorder: Excessive alcohol consumption or drug abuse can cause liver inflammation or damage and elevated enzyme levels.
• Metabolic syndrome: A set of symptoms increasing the risk of heart diseases, including high blood sugar, high blood pressure, obesity, and elevated fats.
• Other causes: Liver cancer, autoimmune hepatitis, thyroid disorders, and certain medications can also elevate liver enzyme levels.

What Are the Symptoms of Elevated Liver Enzyme Levels?

Most people with elevated liver enzymes do not show symptoms, often discovering it through routine blood tests. However, some may experience the following symptoms: 

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes).
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Diarrhea.
• Changes in stool or urine color.
• Fatigue.
• Abdominal pain.

How Are Elevated Liver Enzyme Levels Diagnosed?

Elevated liver enzyme levels are usually detected during routine blood tests or when investigating other health problems. 

A specific test called Liver Function Test (LFT) may be ordered by a doctor to measure liver enzyme levels routinely for individuals more prone to liver diseases. Risk factors for liver diseases include: 

1. A family history of liver diseases.
2. History of alcohol consumption.
3. Taking certain medications or supplements.
4. Having certain diseases such as severe hypertension, diabetes, lupus, or colon cancer.

It is worth noting that Blazma offers a liver package, including 6 different tests to check liver health, and it does not require any prior preparations.

How Are Elevated Liver Enzyme Levels Treated?

Many individuals do not need specific treatment, as about one-third of people with elevated liver enzymes have normal levels after two to four weeks.

However, if levels remain high, additional blood tests and imaging tests may be ordered by the doctor to determine the underlying cause and the appropriate treatment method. 

Treatment depends on the cause of elevated liver enzymes. Still, generally, the treatment plan may include lifestyle changes such as adopting a healthy diet, exercising, losing weight, and limiting sugar and alcohol intake.