Liver function tests (LFTs) are blood tests that help check how well your liver is working. Since the liver plays a big role in keeping you healthy, understanding these tests can give you important information about your health.
What Are Liver Function Tests?
Liver function tests measure different substances in your blood to see how your liver is doing. Here are some key tests often included:
- Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT): An enzyme mainly found in the liver. High levels can show liver damage or inflammation.
- Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST): An enzyme in the liver and other parts of the body. High levels can suggest liver damage or muscle problems.
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): An enzyme linked to bile ducts. High levels might mean there’s an issue with bile flow or liver disease.
- Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT): An enzyme involved in breaking down toxins. High levels can indicate liver disease or alcohol-related issues.
- Bilirubin: A substance from the breakdown of red blood cells. High levels can cause yellowing of the skin and eyes and may signal liver or bile duct problems.
- Albumin: A protein made by the liver. Low levels can indicate liver disease or poor nutrition.
- Total Protein: Measures all proteins in the blood, including albumin. Abnormal levels can suggest liver or kidney problems.
Why Are Liver Function Tests Important?
Liver function tests are important for several reasons:
- Detecting Liver Disease: They can help find liver problems like hepatitis or fatty liver early, even before you have symptoms.
- Monitoring Health Conditions: If you already have liver disease, these tests help track how you’re doing and how well treatments are working.
- Evaluating Symptoms: If you have symptoms like yellow skin, stomach pain, or weight loss, these tests can help find out if your liver is the issue.
- Checking Overall Health: They can also screen for liver problems, especially if you have risk factors like heavy drinking or a history of liver issues.
How Are Liver Function Tests Done?
Liver function tests are done by taking a small sample of blood from your arm. The process is quick and usually feels like a tiny pinch. Sometimes, you might need to fast for a few hours before the test, but this depends on your doctor’s instructions.
What Do the Results Mean?
Here’s a basic idea of what abnormal results might mean:
- High ALT and AST: Could indicate liver inflammation or damage.
- High ALP: Might suggest problems with bile ducts or liver disease.
- High Bilirubin: Can signal liver issues or bile duct problems.
- Low Albumin: Might show liver disease or malnutrition.
- Abnormal Total Protein: Could point to liver or kidney issues.
Liver function tests are a valuable way to check on your liver health. By understanding what these tests measure and why they’re important, you can take steps to stay healthy. If you have symptoms or concerns, talk to your doctor about whether liver function tests are right for you. With the right information and care, you can keep your liver—and yourself—healthy and well.
