Understanding Symptoms of Liver Disease Through Liver Function Tests

Liver function tests (LFTs) are essential tools in evaluating liver health, identifying damage, and diagnosing liver diseases. These tests quantify proteins, enzymes, and other blood components that indicate how well the liver is functioning. Abnormal results often point to underlying conditions or symptoms that warrant medical attention. Below, we explore the key indicators in liver function tests and the symptoms they may signal.

Key Indicators and Symptoms

Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)

Liver cells contain the enzymes ALT and AST. When liver cells are damaged, these enzymes leak into the bloodstream, leading to increased levels. High ALT and AST levels often suggest liver cell injury or inflammation. Common symptoms include fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), nausea, and upper abdominal discomfort.

Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)

ALP is an enzyme associated with bile ducts. Increased levels usually signify inflammation of the liver or blockage of the bile duct. Symptoms linked to high ALP include jaundice, itching, dark urine, and pale stools. These signs may point to conditions like cholestasis or bile duct disorders.

Bilirubin

A yellow pigment called bilirubin is created when red blood cells break down. The liver processes and excretes it through bile. Increased bilirubin levels suggest impaired bile excretion or excessive breakdown of red blood cells. Symptoms such as jaundice, dark urine, light-colored stools, and fatigue are commonly observed.

Albumin

The liver produces the protein albumin, which aids in blood pressure and fluid balance maintenance. Low albumin levels indicate a reduced ability of the liver to produce proteins, leading to swelling in the legs or abdomen (edema), chronic fatigue, and poor appetite.

Prothrombin Time (PT)

The ability of the liver to produce clotting factors is measured by PT. Prolonged PT indicates impaired liver function, which may result in easy bruising, frequent nosebleeds, or prolonged bleeding from minor injuries.

Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT)

GGT is an enzyme involved in bile transport. Higher GGT levels often point to bile duct issues, alcohol-related liver damage, or certain medications. Associated symptoms include fatigue, nausea, and unexplained weight loss.

Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)

LDH levels rise when there is liver cell injury. Symptoms may include jaundice, abdominal pain, and overall fatigue. While LDH is not liver-specific, its elevated presence may suggest liver-related conditions when combined with other abnormal LFT markers.

Importance of Early Detection

Recognizing abnormal liver function test results and their related symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and management. Liver diseases like hepatitis, fatty liver disease, and cirrhosis often show subtle symptoms initially, making regular health check-ups important for high-risk individuals.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you experience symptoms such as persistent fatigue, jaundice, abdominal swelling, or unexplained weight changes, consult a healthcare provider promptly. Abnormal liver function tests should never be ignored, as they may indicate treatable or preventable liver conditions.

For reliable testing and accurate results, the best liver function test lab in Dubai is Forte Clinical Laboratory. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve liver health outcomes, supporting the liver’s vital functions and overall well-being.