The Liver Test: Why Is It Essential for Your Overall Health?
The liver is the largest gland in the human body. It is associated with excretion, releases various enzymes, and performs various other functions. Sometimes people may experience some issues with the liver, which can affect overall health. Various liver tests are performed to determine liver health. So, this article is all about the liver test. It will be helpful for you if you are experiencing any liver issues, are going for a liver test, or want to become more aware of your health.
What is the Liver Function Test?
A liver function test is a blood test that is performed to learn about the health of your liver. This test measures different elements in your blood, such as the amount of protein, bilirubin, and enzymes. This test is performed to find out if the liver has any disease or is not working well. Liver health is associated with the overall health of the body. So, the test should be performed regularly to keep an eye on your liver’s health.
Who is recommended to take this Liver Test?
Individuals experiencing any of these symptoms should go for a liver test:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Fatigue
- Jaundice (Skin and eyes turn yellow colored)
- Vomiting and nausea
- Dark-colored urine
- Light colored poop
Aside from the symptoms listed above, people with a family history of liver disease can also undergo a liver test. A liver test can also be a good idea if you drink a lot of alcohol, have been exposed to the hepatitis virus, or have taken any medicines that can harm your liver.
Why Liver Function Test is Done?
A liver test is done to find out:
- If the liver has any disease such as ascites or hepatitis etc.
- If a liver treatment medication is working properly.
- Find out the stage of infection.
- Check on the side effects of any medicine.
- Diagnose the disease before it gets worse.
Various Types of Liver Function Tests?
Various tests are performed to determine the health of your liver. Sometimes, mild results can also be a sign of liver disease. These are some common liver tests:
Albumin Test
The liver creates a specific protein called albumin. This protein is associated with many body functions. Albumin moves hormones, vitamins, and other substances to different parts of the body and keeps the tissues nourished. This test is performed to determine the level of protein your liver is making.
Alkaline Phosphate or ALP Test
An enzyme known as ALP is found in the bile ducts, liver, and bones. This test is performed to measure the system of the bile duct in your liver. This test is not performed individually; it gets combined with some other tests.
Alanine Transaminase or ALT Test
Alanine transaminase, or ALT, is an enzyme that metabolizes the proteins in your body. If due to any circumstances, your liver is not working properly, then this enzyme can be released into the bloodstream. When this enzyme gets into the bloodstream, it can cause ALT levels to go up. This test is performed to determine the level of ALT. A higher level indicates liver damage.
Bilirubin Test
When red blood cells break down, they create a waste product called bilirubin. This waste product is excreted through the stool after passing through the liver. If the liver is not working properly or is damaged, it can’t process bilirubin properly. This condition can lead to an increased level of bilirubin in the blood. A higher level of bilirubin can cause various diseases. This test is performed to check the level of bilirubin in your bloodstream.
Aspartate Aminostransferase or AST Test
An enzyme called AST is present in various parts of the body, such as the heart, liver, brain, pancreas, muscles, and pancreas. A damaged liver can’t release the AST enzyme properly into the bloodstream. This test is performed to check the level of AST in the bloodstream. A higher AST is a risk. This test is not performed individually; it can be performed together with the ALT test.
How to prepare for the Liver test?
In most cases, you may need to avoid eating and drinking (fasting) for about 10-12 hours before going for the liver test. Although your doctor will provide you with all the information. A little blood will be withdrawn from your veins. No need to panic, as it does not feel the pain that much.
How the Liver Test is performed?
A liver test starts by collecting blood samples from the patient. A small needle is carefully injected into the patient’s vein to withdraw blood. You may feel a little pain while injecting the needle. The collected blood is then transferred to a container. This container with your blood sample will then be sent to a laboratory for examination. A report will be created after examining the blood sample. You will get the report within 2-3 days or more, as per the requirement.
I hope you found this information helpful. I am pretty sure you are now aware of kidney tests. You must visit the doctor as soon as possible if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms. Always visit a doctor before the situation gets worse. Thank you for reading this article! To know more tips related to liver disease and liver test you can visit the group Health Tips and Healthy Lifestyle for health related tips.
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