Introduction
If you’ve been diagnosed with elevated liver enzymes, you’re not alone. This common condition affects millions of people every year. In fact, according to the American Liver Foundation, as many as one in 10 Americans have elevated liver enzymes. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what elevated liver enzymes are, what causes them, and how they’re diagnosed and treated.
What Are Liver Enzymes?
Before we dive into elevated liver enzymes, it’s important to understand what liver enzymes are in the first place. Liver enzymes are proteins that help your liver carry out its many functions. Your liver is responsible for breaking down toxins, producing bile, and regulating your body’s metabolism. When your liver is damaged or inflamed, it can release enzymes into your bloodstream, which can cause elevated levels.
What Causes Elevated Liver Enzymes?
There are many causes of elevated liver enzymes, including alcohol use, viral hepatitis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and certain medications. In some cases, elevated liver enzymes can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as liver cancer or autoimmune hepatitis. That’s why it’s important to see your doctor if you have elevated liver enzymes.
Diagnosing Elevated Liver Enzymes
If your doctor suspects that you have elevated liver enzymes, they’ll likely order a blood test to measure the levels of certain liver enzymes in your bloodstream. They may also order imaging tests, such as a CT scan or ultrasound, to get a closer look at your liver.
Treating Elevated Liver Enzymes
The treatment for elevated liver enzymes depends on the underlying cause. If your elevated liver enzymes are caused by alcohol use, you may need to cut back or quit drinking altogether. If they’re caused by a medication you’re taking, your doctor may switch you to a different medication. In some cases, medications can be prescribed to help reduce inflammation in the liver.
Lifestyle Changes
In addition to medical treatment, there are some lifestyle changes you can make to help improve your liver health. These include: – Eating a healthy, balanced diet – Exercising regularly – Avoiding alcohol and drugs – Managing stress – Getting enough sleep
Preventing Elevated Liver Enzymes
There are also steps you can take to prevent elevated liver enzymes from occurring in the first place. These include: – Drinking alcohol in moderation, if at all – Avoiding high-risk behaviors, such as sharing needles or having unprotected sex – Eating a healthy, balanced diet – Exercising regularly – Getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B
Conclusion
Elevated liver enzymes can be a sign of a serious condition, but they can also be treated with the right medical care and lifestyle changes. If you’re concerned about your liver health, talk to your doctor about getting tested for elevated liver enzymes. By taking care of your liver, you can help protect your overall health and wellbeing.