Elevated ALT Levels
Elevated ALT levels (also called Alanine Transaminase and SGPT) in a liver function blood test can be a sign of a many liver disorder, from mild to serious.
Most common causes of high ALT levels is Fatty Liver, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, or other liver related disorders and disease.
Fatty Liver is probably the most common causes of elevated ALT level, which is the most important enzyme analyzed in a blood test for diagnosing a fatty liver.
This enzyme is mostly concentrated in the liver, and this is why high ALT levels in the bloodstream may suggest a liver injury.
What are normal ALT levels in blood?
The normal level of ALT is the bloodstream is 5 to 45 U/L (units per liter). This range can slightly vary depending where you take the blood test.
If the blood test shows elevated ALT levels outside the normal range, even small amount, fatty liver and other liver disorders might be the cause.
It’s worth saying that in a more severe liver diseases (like Cirrhosis), the ALT levels would be much higher than elevated ALT levels in when it’s a fatty liver.
More information can be found in liver function blood test article.
Related articles:
August 31st, 2010 at 3:15 PM
Thank you for your great informative site about fatty liver. Would you also tell us what is considered elevated ALT level? I know that any value over 45 is elevated level but how much elevation makes it dangerous? Mine was 82 at first and decreased to 76 later. I used to exercise regularly before that my fatty liver was diagnosed and I put a side exercise because of it. I know that exercise is said to be good for fatty liver but because that I was exercising 3~4 times in a week for a year and still diagnosed with fatty liver, I thought what if it is because of the exercise. I read in the internet that too much pressure in abdomen muscles may also cause fatty liver. Now, instead of gym, I go walking for 1~2 hours and start working mostly standing (instead of sitting).
September 1st, 2010 at 12:44 AM
You ALT level is high, but not dangerous if treated.
Exercising is very important to treat fatty liver, but please don’t forget you also need to eat right. I recommend reading this article, to ensure you know what’s the correct food for fatty liver.
September 2nd, 2010 at 2:14 PM
Thank you very much. What is the dangerous level for ALT? I am getting that impression that my ALT level is very close to that dangerous lever.
September 22nd, 2010 at 10:26 AM
Hope i (Male 21yrs) get a response .. cause im in a pissed off state
My SGPT/Alt level is 290 in first test (blood drawn in evening) and it raised to 420 in second (blood drawn in morning) ( after 3 days)
i worked outside and had outside food continously for 3 months
i returned home 2 weeks ago when i realised that i couldnt eat anythin and felt like vomiting
prior to this i had severe headache and fever for 3 days for which i took medicine consulting a doctor who said its just seasonal fever, although a little a headache still persists but no fever for now.
These tests where taken in my hometown, but the reading increased despite i had home food only.
Right now i still have difficulty eating my home food and also feel like vomiting. i ve pink spots over my exposed parts of my body. Althoug im undergoing medical advice i would to get feedback form other sources as i dont feel any kind of improvement
More over i dont have jaundice, those reading where also taken.
And the tests for Dengue, typoid(vidal) are Negative and my CBC is normal
Please help, your feedback in any kind is apreciated…
October 15th, 2010 at 3:47 PM
My level of alt has just shot up to over 500 in the last few days after being diagnosed with a 7mm gall stone….I have been discharged as there was no blockage in my bile duct after an mrcp test…..should I still persue the raised alt? I am not a drinker.. Other levels of lft are normal?
January 29th, 2011 at 7:13 AM
Mac, have you done a liver ultrasound test? The most important thing to do in your situation is to get a proper diagnosis, as you might have a different liver disorder, and not fatty liver. Please let me know.
January 29th, 2011 at 7:16 AM
Poorly, raised ALT levels are not normal. You need to lower them. I suggest you to get a liver ultrasound test for proper diagnosis. In addition, what’s is other liver function enzyme levels?
March 17th, 2011 at 1:24 PM
Hi!
I just did Ast/Alt test. Abdominal ultrasound I had for left side abdominal pain (gone now) show nothing wrong but fatty liver. Now blood work Alt 98 ,Ast 48.
What should I expect? What could it be?
I’m Social drinker
March 22nd, 2011 at 4:12 AM
I have been following my elevated liver enzymes since before my gallbladder was removed. I had terrible and chronic bloating, fatigue, weight gain, and diarrhea with everything I ate. I have been sent to a Liver Speicalist and recently had my LFT’s done again and they were still elevated with my ALT being 199 and my AST is 97. I am a carrier for hemachromatosis and my iron level was slightly elevated. I was tested for Hepatitis A, B, C all of which were negative. I was given an antibiotic to take for 2 weeks that was for hepatic encephalopathy and it worked wonders. I now have no bloating, pain, cramping, or diarrhea and have lost about 9 lbs in 2 months and am feeling great. The liver specialist wants to now pursue a liver biopsy due to my enzymes remaining elevated but I keeping having to speak with a nurse and she can’t really tell me what he is looking for. I am hoping for a fatty liver but wanted another opinion as well. Im a social drinker and try very hard to avoid taking medicine’s. I have been taking milk thistle to help try and regulate the liver functions. Any ideas or feedback would be greatly greatly appreciated.
March 22nd, 2011 at 4:45 AM
Hi Jordan,
Have you done an abdominal ultrasound yet? It is one of the main ways to diagnose a fatty liver.
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
March 27th, 2011 at 1:43 AM
Dear Doctor, I am 40yrs of age. My ALT level was found 108 during my routine checkup done for high grade fever. I am not alcoholic nor drug user nor having. Could you please comment or advice. Regards, Sarwar
April 17th, 2011 at 7:50 PM
My fiance just had a blood test done and his ALT rate is 98 His AST is 48 and his LDH is 333.
He doesn’t have health insurance, and I am worried it could be something serious.
Any ideas of what this test could indicate? Thank you!
May 13th, 2011 at 7:33 AM
Would consuming alcohol a few hours before the blood test affect ALT and AST levels?
May 25th, 2011 at 8:19 AM
I had my liver tests done, the findings are that i have a slightly raised albumin and ALT is 21i.u./l. and my HBV-DNA load is 7800.u./ml. What could be the meaning of these findings.
June 2nd, 2011 at 11:38 AM
Hi there I just got my routine labs done, I had a ankle sprain during squash match two days back. And I am on pain killers like brufen600 mg. I am slightly over weight as-well. I had fatty liver previously. Now i got my labs done for uric acid, all the labs are normal expect ALT which is 67 and my esr is 40. What should I do? I am nonalcoholic.
Kindly advise, my doctor says to wait for 3 weeks after stopping the pain killer and repeat the test.
June 2nd, 2011 at 11:42 AM
Hello Dean,
Yes, alcohol could affect the blood test results. Make sure you don’t drink any alcohol before taking the test.
-Mark
June 2nd, 2011 at 11:43 AM
Hello Silla,
Your blood test results do not point to any particular disease. Could you please tell me why you’ve taken the blood test at the first place? Do you have any symptoms?
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
June 2nd, 2011 at 11:45 AM
Hello Mughese,
Please re-do the blood test after stopping the pain killer and post your results. Medication could effect your enzyme levels.
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
June 8th, 2011 at 10:51 AM
Hi DR,
My ATL level is around 150 and AST level is around 100, currently checking for HEP A/B/C. I”m just waiting on result. Could my raise ATL and AST level cost by eating too much fast food, like daily for the past month. I’m also a diabetic and my GLU is good.
Thanks!
Phillip
June 11th, 2011 at 2:11 AM
[...] article.A typical Fatty Liver Diagnosis processA blood test is taken.If the blood test shows elevated liver enzymes, a second blood test is ordered.A second blood test is taken to rule out other liver diseases, and [...]
June 23rd, 2011 at 11:15 PM
Hi.
I had some liver test in past 2-3 weeks. my result are :
ALT 55 ( normal lab range less than46 U/L )
GGT 55 ( normal lab range less than 60 U/L )
MCV 82 ( lab range : Min 80 – 97 fl )
AST 27 ( normal lab range : less than 37 )
Everything is ok just ALT.
I am so nervous about it as per ministry of transportation asked me to send them this result .
I am not smoker, last drink was 5 weeks ago ( only one bottle of beer )
i am 5’6 and 150 lbs.
How may I reduce my ALT . I just bought a Milk Thistle pills ( from swiss herbal brand ) and started talking 2 pills daily.
Does my ALT is abnormal? how may i reduce it to the normal range?
I eat every day at the restaurant but not a fast food , it is like a full restaurant and i eat only rotisserie chicken there . I cut my habits like eating chocolate and cookie and ice cream.
I need your advise, please
June 24th, 2011 at 8:52 AM
Hello Parham,
Yes, you ALT is slightly higher than normal, although other results seem in their normal range.
Have you done any physical activity before the blood test? If so, it could affect the results.
If not, I suggest doing an additional blood test, to make sure it wasn’t a one-time abnormality.
If you ALT is elevated in the 2nd blood test, I suggest doing an abdominal ultrasound scan for further diagnosis.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
June 25th, 2011 at 11:46 AM
Dear Dr. Mark
Thanks for your respond. MY Elevated ALT were high in last 2 blood work ( I just walked to the Lab and stayed there for 30 mins before giving blood . no more physical activity ) .I am going to go bdominal ultrasound scan in next week . Base of below information , do you think to submit my lab report along with doctor note ( which confirm that ,i do not drink alcohol often ( I may drink every 3 month , only one glass may not) and i never smoke/ drub) to the ministry of transportation to reinstate my drivers license ?
I Just remember that I had a CT scan ( for my chest ) at the hospital a month ago ( I thought my chess pain was regarding my hearth attach by doctor at the hospital said pain was regarding my muscles not my hearth)
Due to above information and below lab test , please advise me.
ALT 55 ( normal lab range less than46 U/L )
GGT 55 ( normal lab range less than 60 U/L )
MCV 82 ( lab range : Min 80 – 97 fl )
AST 27 ( normal lab range : less than 37 )
Regards,
Parham
July 1st, 2011 at 8:54 PM
hi doctor, i am a 26yrs old female. i have had my blood test because of my life insurance requirement, and i have Ast and Alt are out of the nornal range,which are 51 for Ast and 64 for Alt. does my liver ok with all that or does i have some problems with my liver? the test was taken in the morning when i just woke up 1hour before that. i am a nonalcoholic and diet eating person. any explains from you would be appreciated. thank you
July 17th, 2011 at 9:34 AM
hi doctor, i went to yearly physical exam 2 weeks ago and had a call from my gp and wanted to see me regarding elevated alt – 155 u/l . when i saw him, he ordered another blood test and abdominal ultrasound. the next day i got a call my doctor and rush to his clinic as fast as i could. my alt this time went 237 u/l but the ultrasound report says i have 2 small polyps in my gallbladder and a mild fatty liver and sent to see a liver specialist for a second opinion. i am 49 yrs old female weight 132 lbs and 5’3”. occasional drinker, non smoker and a moderate eater but do not exercise. how high the alt could go if it is only a fatty liver? is this something serious? i am very worried, pls reply soon..thanks…
July 18th, 2011 at 7:59 AM
I just received my blood test results from a physical needed for life insurance. I am a 43 year old male in good shape. I’m 6’2″ 195 lbs. I have never had issues with my liver but, looking at the results of this test, I am slightly concerned:
ALT: 62
Alkaline Phosphatase: 128
AST: 33
GGT: 28
Bilirubin: 0.9
Should I be concerned?
July 18th, 2011 at 8:01 AM
I forgot to mention that I have never drank alcohol, done any drugs, and I am not taking any medications.
July 19th, 2011 at 5:34 AM
Hello Siegfrie
Your liver enzymes are a bit elevated, but not to a level that its dangerous.
I highly recommend doing a liver ultrasound. A liver ultrasound can verify an existense of a fatty liver, or other liver diseases. Its crucial for proper diagnoais.
Best regards,
Mark Bar-Gomel
July 20th, 2011 at 2:50 PM
Hi. My ALT was 259 and AST was 47. I take Lamictal for bipolar, would that cause the elevated liver enzymes? Is this a dangerous level? I am very active as well, and eat very healthy, and rarely drink alcohol.
thanks
July 21st, 2011 at 5:59 PM
I’m a bit worried too. My doctor discovered a raised ALT of 340, all the other tests were normal. I had an ultrasound of my liver, which showed no inflamation, no fatty liver disease or abnormalities. I have been tested for clotting problems, all the heps, coeliacs disease and protein in the blood and everything is negative. I am on a healthy diet and have lost around a stone but my ALT level is now over 700. I very rarely drink, usually going a few weeks or months without drinking and will only have one or two when I do drink.
In January I recieved bisphosphonate infusions for chronic pain syndrome. I’m really worried that these tests are so high and seem to be still rising!
July 26th, 2011 at 6:25 PM
Hi,
For the first time ever, I have slightly elevated ALT and ASTs. My ALT is 115 and my AST is 68.
My GP sent me for an upper abdomen ultrasound and my kidneys, gall bladder and liver came back normal.
I am concerned as I don’t know what else to do to find out the problem.
My doctor has said to wait for another 6 weeks to have another blood test.
Are there any other conditions that might lead to elevated LFTs?
I’ve also just been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s Diseas, but she said this is unlrelated to my elevated LFTs.
Thanks,
Ana
July 27th, 2011 at 9:38 AM
Hi,
I’m 15 and my AST was 71, my ALT was 129. A year ago I had my gallbladder out, as well as having a hernia repaired and my appendix out. For the past five months I’ve had some pretty bad neck pain, and have been taking pain killers (like ibuprofen and Tylenol) but no more than the recommended amount. My mono test was negative, as well as my strep test. My tests for hep a, b, c an HIV are out (I’m not sexually active). I was wondering if you know what could cause this? I know that is very high, especially for my age. I was sick (upset stomach, headache, etc…) for two/three days. I’ve been on house-arrest for about a week, just resting and on the couch. Any ideas?
July 27th, 2011 at 9:44 AM
By the way, I am 115 lbs. And very active. I play soccer, lacrosse, and started basketball this year.
August 1st, 2011 at 2:22 PM
Hi Kel,
Can you please post your full blood test results? Not just AST and ALT.
In addition, what is your weight? Have you done a liver ultrasound test?
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
August 1st, 2011 at 2:24 PM
Hello Ana,
Your ALT level is high. Hashimoto’s Disease is really nothing related to a Fatty Liver.
Have you done the blood test close to an exercise maybe? This could explain it.
In addition, what is your weight? Do another blood test soon and please report back with the results.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
August 1st, 2011 at 2:28 PM
Hello Sophie,
Your ALT level seems really high. Can you please post the full blood test results?
In addition, are you by mistake pregnant? This could explain your ALT levels.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
August 1st, 2011 at 2:29 PM
Hello JBL,
Some medication can really cause ALT and AST levels to raise, including the ones you’ve mentioned.
Please read the medication notes for further details.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
August 1st, 2011 at 2:30 PM
Hello Siegfried,
Your ALT level is slightly elevated. Have you re-done the blood test? If so, please post back.
In addition, I suggest doing a liver ultrasound for further analysis.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
August 2nd, 2011 at 7:31 PM
I first discovered that I had elevated LFTs back in 2008, they don’t fluctuate all that much, my ALT hovers at around 100 and my AST at around 60. Back in may my ALT dropped to its lowest I’ve seen it since I’ve starting monitoring my levels at 65 and my AST dropped back within range, however my last test done two weeks ago showed my ALT jumped back up to 175 and my AST to 75.
I’ve had two ultrasounds, a CT scan, and a full blood workup. Everything came back normal except that I have some polyps in my gall bladder (can those cause this?) I’ve been seeing a liver specialist who recommends I just keep monitoring my LFTs.
August 3rd, 2011 at 4:48 AM
Hello Mike,
If your ALT and AST enzyme levels are elevated and there is no sigh of any disease in the ultrasound and CT scan, I would highly recommend a liver biopsy. This is one of these cases a liver biopsy is needed to diagnose what you’re having.
For more details please read this article:
http://www.fatty-liver.com/when-to-consider-a-liver-biopsy/
Wish you full health,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
August 8th, 2011 at 4:08 AM
Hi,
I am 54. Have had stiffness from sitting for more than a year, I now have weakness and pain in arm muscles. Fatigue as well after little exertion. Gamma scan shows no arthritis. (Originally I was told osteoarthritis). Bloods reveal ALT 196 and has been rising for over a year, Alkaline Phosphatase 95, C Reactive protein 6. An ultrasound on liver has been arranged. Creatinine is 78. I am 13st. I work in a call centre. So far I’m told, more or less, I’m overweight and lazy. Could there be something else going on? I worry as an aunt had MS and my mother died from MND. Diagnosis seems to be taking forever, its dragging me down
August 8th, 2011 at 4:18 PM
S. Total Bilirubin 1.2 mg/dl
S. Direct bilirubin 0.2mg/dl
S. Indirect bilirundin 1.0 mg/dl
Gamma GT 21 1U/L
ALT 141 IU/L
Alkaline phosphatase 73 IU/L
Could you please tell me about this report. Doctor also prescribed him a folic acid medicine.
Weight is 51kg. He is also having little problem in large intestine. But his blood report and stool test is normal. Today he gone through ultrasound.
August 8th, 2011 at 5:21 PM
Hi Doctor,
I just received my 17 year old son’s lab report back. The reason he had one in the first place is was to see if he had Epstein Barr. The test came back with:
Calcium 11.0
CO2 32
Albumin 5.1
They ran a 2nd test because of the high calcium and it appears his liver is out of whack
CO2 31
Glucose 60
Calcium 6.5
Albumin 5.1
Bilirubin, total 2.0
AST 62
ALT 130
Vitamin D 76
Any thoughts on these results? His blood was retested today. The endocrinologist checked off nearly everything in the Calcium and Bone column along with his Electrolytes. Prior to this he had been on Doxycycline. He had also suffered a pars fracture 3 years back. Other than that, he seems like a healthy kid.
August 10th, 2011 at 2:06 AM
Hello June,
When are you going to have the ultrasound scan? It’s crucial for proper diagnosis.
Basically, you liver enzyme levels seem high and it could mean you have a fatty liver, which is revers-able.
But it’s important to have the ultrasound results before an actual diagnosis.
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
August 10th, 2011 at 2:09 AM
Hello Sami,
According to the details you provided, the ALT level is high, so it could be a fatty liver.
Unfortunately, I can’t give you an actual diagnosis without an ultrasound test results.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
August 10th, 2011 at 2:12 AM
Hello Nancie,
The liver enzyme levels really seem high for your son’s age.
Is he overweight?
In addition, have you ran an ultrasound scan for further diagnosis? It is crucial for proper diagnosis.
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
August 10th, 2011 at 2:45 AM
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
Good Morning Doctor, my test is on 16th August , results presumably take 7 to 10days to be relayed my GP. I also was diagnosed back in April with IGT. I guess at the moment it is a process of elimination to establish cause of stiffness etc
August 11th, 2011 at 5:24 AM
Hello Doctor,
I had done a routine medical checkup for myself. Everything is normal except for ALT with 48.7 U/L (normal range : 5.0-41.0 U/L) and AST with 14.6 U/L (normal range : 15.0 – 38.0 U/L).
Is there a probability that I might have fatty liver?
Thanks
August 11th, 2011 at 12:27 PM
Hello doctor, my wife was suffering from typhoid. she had increasing AST -223,ALT-160,ALP -619.
after 7 days treatment(monocef 1gm,merotrol) this came down to AST-66,ALT -35,ALP -346.
again after 8 days i done the test yesterday and it came up to -AST-392,ALT-729 ,ALP -236.
Today i test again it is AST -1702,ALT-807,ALP- 309,GGTP-140.
Currently she is taking Faronem 200 mg, zenocin 400 mg. Please suggest me what i need to do and why this is increasing too high.(Hepatitis A,B,E – Negative, TB-Gold -Negative).
Please suggest me, its urgent.
August 12th, 2011 at 6:36 PM
Dear dr ultrasound of whole abdomin is clear. Liver size is normal.
Could you please suggest me now
August 13th, 2011 at 10:28 AM
Thank you for your reply. I am not pregnant as I am on the pill and everything is normal. My ALT has been raised since January/before christmas.
I do not know the numbers of my other results but have been told that they are all within the normal range. Sorry I can’t be more helpful with them.
August 13th, 2011 at 12:26 PM
Hello doctor,
I went to the doctor 5 Months ago and they did a blood test it showed my liver count was high 102ALT and 80 for my AST. He told me to quit drinking alcohol, lose some weight and eat healthier. I lost 20 pounds, quit drinking alcohol and ate healthy foods my liver count is now back to normal. The doctor told me I did all the right things to lower my liver count. He also told me I should continue to live that same lifestyle to ensure good health. My question is do you think I need to quit drinking alcohol all together or can I drink to get a buzz here and there? I haven’t drank in 5 months sense my original blood test because I have been worried about my liver.
August 14th, 2011 at 2:01 AM
Hello Dan
I will tell you I say to my own patients. You can drink alcohol “here and there”. As long as you watch you health, eat healthy, you can drink alcoholc once a week for example.
What I do suggest is, that you always be careful because your liver is in the condition that the disease will be restored if you are not careful enough.
Just make sure you are in control about what you eat and drink and how much.
Regards
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
August 14th, 2011 at 6:41 PM
Dr Mark – After a routine physical I had elevated lft’s. On test one my AST WAS 77, ALT 88 ALP 334 calcium 11.1. All other values we’re with in normal range. Subsequent test test one month later showed AST 41, ALT 40, ALP 224, calcium 10.9 with GGT 184. I am having a liver ultra sound done 1n 2 day’s. My question is the month before the initial test I had a sinus infection and bronchitus and was taking mucinex, Ibubrofan, Niquil and cough surup and three or four drinks a week. In you opinion could this combination have caused the elevated numbers. Also I did break my foot about 2 months ago. Also I am 64 and in good health otherwise.
Thank you
August 16th, 2011 at 9:28 AM
Dr. Mark,
I am 35 male. I have my fatty liver examined in 2008 that time I had a viral fever and slight pain in abdomen that shown my fatty liver. After that I have not taken any medication for that. But, in 2010 I had a fever and I though I can go for ultra sound and the ultrasound results shown as below
There is no focal solid mass lesion found in the liver
Non specific bright echologenic texture in the liver consistent with diffuse fatty infiltration
At the same time I had underwent LFT on 18/08/2010 and again I have given my LFT on 8/8/11
Please find the results and kindly advice me how to go about that.
Bili ALP GGT ALT ALB TP
Normal <21 35-110 <41 <56 38-50 65-85
18/08/10 8 125 61 66 45 74
08/08/11 5 151 52 53 43 71
ALP is rised , GGT reduced but not notmal and ALT reduced and came to normal range
I take alcohol once or twice a month. My height 165 CM and weight 72 KG (Overweight)
In the recent findings, also found my Fasting Blood glucose 6.2 (Impaired). Any of these elivated enzymes caused these rise in glucose levels?
Kindly advice.
Sincerely
Nara
August 17th, 2011 at 1:54 AM
Hi, i had a blood test and my ALT was 179, it was the only abnormality on the test which I had when I went into hospital for chest pains last Friday.
I have since been to my doctor and have been diagnosed with high blood pressure and am having another blood test tomorrow. I was also prescribed tablets for gastritis.
I am over weight, have never smoked or ever taken any drugs. As for alcohol, I would think my yearly units never reach double numbers, can’t remember the last time I had a drink!
The doctor at the hospital said I had a fatty liver, my GP said I need a better exercise and diet.
At night I have been having chest pain, dull aches which I presume are the gastritis?
I’m working myself into a frenzy of fear here, as this is unknown to me.
Please reply.
August 18th, 2011 at 4:49 AM
Hello Nara,
Fasting blood glucose is directly impacted by what you eat.
For example, if you eat exceeded amounts of fruit with high levels of sugar (glucose), the blood test will surely show an elevated glucose levels.
Same thing regarding ALP – it’s directly affected by the food you consume.
Your results are generally good, but just focus on the food you eat and your blood test will surely show better results.
In addition, please note that it takes about 3 months to actually see the changes in the blood test.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
August 18th, 2011 at 4:55 AM
Hello Simon,
The chest pan you’re having are not related to fatty liver. I would suggest to examine this symptom with your physician.
Regarding ALT – 179 is high. The main cause of fatty liver in your case seems to be that you’re overweight and the lack of physical activity.
Can you please tell me what’s your weight/height?
The treatment for the disease is a correct low-fat diet for fatty liver, together with exercise.
You have to loose some weight to fight the disease.
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
August 18th, 2011 at 11:12 PM
Dr. Mark,
Thanks for your valuable comments. I am just wondering, whether the fatty content on the liver be cured with perfect diet and exercise? are there any cases where you have seen the result after ultra sound?
Thanks
Nara
August 23rd, 2011 at 7:13 AM
hello doctor,
I am a 24yrs old female. i have had my blood test because of my medical requirement for my job, and i have GGT and ALT are out of the nornal range,which are 49 for GGT and 58 for Alt. does my liver ok with all that or does i have some problems with my liver? . I am a nonalcoholic and diet eating person. Plz explain me regarding this dr.
August 29th, 2011 at 8:03 AM
Hi dr, I have been having many symto
s, weight loss, bloating, loose stools, tired all the time.
I went to see my doctor who ordered blood tests and swobs and pelvic ultrasound this was august last year.
My blood work and swobs was normal. Ultrasound revealed fibroids biggest 4.1cm. Also a polyp which my gyne removed and results was benign. I am awaiting a op to remove the fibroids because of my symptoms and they have grown to 5cm.
Anyway still been losing weight and tired all the time, so had more blood tests done and my doctor phoned to say I have high ggt levels also esr. In march my ggt was 46, in June ggt 70 a week later ggt 72. I rarely drink. I’m 5 foot9 and weigh 9 stone, usually weigh around 10st7 to 11 stone.
My doc sent me for an ultrsound scan and I’m awaiting on results but the dr doing the scan said my liver doesn’t look fatty or damaged. Will this mean further testing if scan is normal? Also I was on decapeptyl injections started in April for 4 months, could this cause my ggt to rise?
Lady38
September 1st, 2011 at 5:52 AM
Hi DR.
I am 23 year old and my height is 5 foot 6 inches, and 72kg weight. My ALT level is 68 (normal range is less than 46), and according to my blood test report other enzymes are normal. I don’t smoke, drink and do physical exercise in my life. What should I do? Is it dangerous or a severe disease?
September 4th, 2011 at 3:32 AM
Hello Khan,
Have you done an ultrasound scan for your liver? It’s essential for proper fatty liver diagnosis. Please do it and update me with the results.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
September 4th, 2011 at 10:59 AM
I had scan done, being referred to liver specialist. I believe its for the specialist to decide whether biopsy necessary. I think my liver was “brighter” then normal, and I have got other symptoms going on. GP read out scan results, I don’t remember his exact words or exact reason for referral. I will make sure I’m more aware of why when I see the specialist though.
September 14th, 2011 at 8:50 AM
hi doc.
a month ago.i have a full medical check up..i was diagnose with fatty liver and high cholesterol level ,elevated alt @367 and uric acid so the doc. advise me to lower my cholesterol and uric acid so he gave me atorvastatin and allupurinol for my medication and be back after two weeks..then after the medication my uric acid .and cholesterol level normalize but my alt is still 267…so the doc.send me to specialist for 2nd opinion..then he prescribed me ursodeoxycholic acid for my alt..and be back after 2 weeks.do you have any suggestion doc to faster lower my alt? is there any effect with my alt level because ive been taking simvastatin for a month prior to my medical exam?
tanx doc!
September 15th, 2011 at 9:28 PM
i am a 23 year old male. i do not drink but i have been feeling tired over the last year or so and have had headaches. i went to the doctor two days ago to get blood test and everything came back ok except ALT 143. A day later i had a liver blood panel done and my ALT was 156 and AST 66 and some results were:
ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE 110
Bilirubin, total 1.3
Bilirubin, direct 0.2
Negative for Hep A-C
Today i had a liver ultrasound and the doc said no masses or stones, but i do have a fatty liver.
I have gained some weight but i am 6’0 201lbs really unactive right now. Are these numbers typical with fatty liver.
What would be the point of a liver biopsy if there is no masses to disesct?
Thanks
Ian
September 21st, 2011 at 6:16 PM
Hi Dr,
Just got back some blood resuts from a work health check. All came back in the normal range, with the exception of a score of 45 for ALT (they suggested it should be under 41) and consequently suggested I should see a Dr. AST was 37 and systolic blood pressure was 126/70 (again with a Dr recommendation).
Is there really a need for concern with all other bloods good and 45 ALT which your article says is normal?
I’m a bit overweight (BMI of 27) but I’m broad and have actually lost 10kg over the last 8 months.
Thanks
Tim
PS I had my most intense workout in a year 6 days before the test.
September 22nd, 2011 at 3:05 AM
Dear sir,
I am 28 years old. 74kg weight, but my ALT level is 108.
Kindly tell me what should i do. Results shown that i have
no Hepatitis. waiting for your kind response.
be happy and have nice time.
with great regards
Yasir Anwar
September 22nd, 2011 at 10:40 AM
I have Hep. C. I received a blood transfusion in 1982. My ALT has been normal or slightly above normal for last 20 years. Last week my ALT was 84, ultrasound was normal. I ahve been exercising and have lost 25 pounds over the last 3 months.
Here are my questions:
1. can a multivitamin cause an increase in ALT results;
2. can exercise cause an increase in ALT results; and
3. If exercise can cause an increase do the benefits offset the slight increase.
Thanks in advance.
Ken W. Good
September 22nd, 2011 at 2:28 PM
I have had a sudden onset of itching skin. My doc did blood tests to check for liver disease and my ALT came back a little high at 62. Doc didn’t seem concerned and didn’t order an ultrasound or further tests. If I had cancer or something serious, would this ALT have been significantly higher? No other levels were outside of normal range.
September 23rd, 2011 at 10:43 AM
Hi Sir,
I am really glad to find this worth reading source of information online. My sincere thanks to you.
Well I am a 28 year old male from India. I have height of 5’8 and weight of 85KGS. I had a 1.5 years back heart attack and underwent LAD Stenting. From that time onwards i am under regular medication of clopidogrel 75 mg, aspirin 150 mg, perindopril 4 mg, amlodipine 5 mg, metoprolol 50 mg, rosuvastatin 20 mg.
Few days back i had severe body pain with fever late in night and next day i underwent blood tests, first only CBC was done and it had bit reduced platelets count of 179000. From next day onwards, i did not had fever and body pain was also relieved. Next entire day i had urination of yellow in colour which made me think i had jaundice and so i Today underwent for blood test and SGPT test and its readings are as below:
Total Bilirubin: 0.22
Direct Bilirubin: 0.08
Indirect Bilirubin: 0.14
SGPT (ALT): 153.66
Further my doctor suggested me to undergo ultrasonography of abdomen and the reports were normal saying my liver is normal in size and echopattern. No focal mass seen. Portal vein is normal.
My Haemoglobin levels are constant and so are my RBC levels in all test. There was a fall of 100 points in my first and today’s readings of WBC.
Doctor said me that my elevated levels of SGPT are due to my regular medications and hence he insisted me to take liver tonic and vitamin B12 and B9 supplement. Further he said me to have brisk to mild walk everyday for 45 mins. and eat healthy food.
I am still concerned and hence i want to know your opinion on same. Your reply ASAP shall be of great moral boost for me. Thanks.
September 24th, 2011 at 10:53 PM
I was recently hospitalized with thyrotoxicosis and diagnosed with elevated liver enzymes and graves disease. My AST was 412 and my ALT was 516. I had a CT scan and three ultrasounds and the hospitalist merely told me I have liver damage after reviewing the ultrasound and said once I start seeing the endocrinologist asap I should let him know. I saw my primary care nurse tiand said I am a very sick lady and my thyroid is very very hyper as I have been told. This all scares me. Could all this be a mistake and I am not having any problems?
For two solid weeks I was unable to consume solid or liquid food as it came up immediately. I am eating fruit every two hours now and avoiding iodine for the most part. I still need to make some substitutions as I have only been out of the hospital for a week. I am going in for more blood work to test for reasons why the enzymes are up so high but but she said only infection or drugs or alcohol cause this and I am hardly a drinker or anything. I have been ordered off alcohol and tylenol but that wasn’t even an issue. Any ideas? I am suppose to see the endo next week but they are refusing to give me an appointment because he is too busy. The primary care said they would make sure I got in so will see, meanwhile I am worried. I cannot sleep without 10 mg of ambien through the night and I wake a few times and then need to sleep again in the morning. I have to take anxiety medicine 3 times a day or I have meltdowns. I have very low energy and my muscles often pain me, my arm and my left leg frequently if I put any pressure on them. I have never been overly emotional but have worked self-employed for over 5 years and it is extremely stressful. My boyfriend has often said this work will end up killing me. I have my wake up call and will make big changes but until I can see the endo doc, I sure wish I knew what was wrong with my liver and what that means and would diet conflict with graves if I have to diet for that too. Thank you in advance
September 24th, 2011 at 10:55 PM
I want to add I weight about 128 and am 5’6. I lost 35 pounds over the last 7 weeks.
September 25th, 2011 at 6:34 AM
Hello Carla,
Your liver enzyme levels are very high.
Have your doctors told you what disease you’re having? Your liver might be only a symptom to a different disease.
Please advise with your doctor’s finding.
Best Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
September 25th, 2011 at 12:51 PM
Hi Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel,
I have received only information about my thyroid and Grave’s that has been going on for a year that I was not aware of until no food or liquid with stay with my stomach and was quickly wasting away. I thought it was damaged from the Grave’s but the primary doctor or the hospitalist has not claimed any reasons to why my liver is damaged and what it all means. I will be having more blood tests tomorrow to test for infections or drug damage but I am not hopeful that will uncover the cause. I am also concerned because one of the medicines I take PTU for short is known to cause liver damage. I just do not think they know yet. I have only been on it for two weeks so I doubt that would cause it. The enzymes were up before I had any medicine. Perhaps you are right but they say that it is easier to get other autoimmune diseases with Grave’s and my liver was already damaged before I took any medicine. A whole year went by with Grave’s and I never knew it. During the period when I was extremely sick right before being hospitalized when my heart felt like it was going to bust through my skin, all I thought was I must have’ pulled a muscle during my wretching which was about 30 times a day. I didn’t get help because I had no insurance but finally bit the bullet and bought some. I had to wait a month before I could use and and could not make it to the office at all as I was so sick. I just hope I can keep it because I cannot put so much stress on me as before and doc says I will have to take meds now for the rest of my life.
To the outside world I look and sound fine but the doctors are telling me I am very sick. When you are in a business, sometimes clients do not understand and I wonder if I should put yellow powder on my face and walk with a cane. I have no choice but to downsize and just have a morning relaxing sleep; seems like the best solution for me right now.
Right now my bowel movements are the color of an elephant. Sometimes I wonder if I now have autoimmune hepatitis. The doctors are more concerned with the thyroid right now and the liver is secondary. Perhaps it will go back to normal when my thyroid numbers are normal. The fact that he saw the ultrasound and did in fact admit it was damaged well it is just a little scary to be in the dark and feel less than adequate when I have always been a very strong and capable business women. I am looking forward to the truth whatever it is. I also had a CT scan and they did see some irritation between the liver and pancreas but don’t know why. Also I am 52 if that means anything. When I was in the hospital I didn’t even know what to ask. Thank you for your time.
September 28th, 2011 at 1:24 PM
Hey I was wondering if you could let me know what levels of alt and ast are dangerous …- had a ct scan and nothing wrong I had ultra sound nothin wrong had ct scan with intervinous nothing wrong …was tested for hepititis ..neg all things were neg they said I just had fatty liver my alt and ast went from being 60 to 220 within 2 months of blood tests every 2 weeks still rising ….what level is dangerous and what is causing I don’t drink and I have been the same weight for 10 yrs and never had any change in ast or alt levels before I have been on humaria for my chrons for 2 yrs now but not takin any pain meds or anythin else
September 29th, 2011 at 2:11 PM
Have been drinking pretty hard the last 6-12 mos.
My AST has gone from 31 to 209, my ALT has gone from 58 to 299 in 12 mos.
Now I know those levels could have elevated in the day prior to the most recent blood test since I was hitting it pretty hard the week or two prior.
My question is how bad and serious are these numbers? I do know I would be in BIG trouble if my AST was higher than my ALT. Thankfully that isn’t the case.
Thoughts? Thank you!
September 29th, 2011 at 2:15 PM
Hi Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
I need some information on the advanced treatment of HCV at your country (also need to know where u practice). What i know that right now HCV patients are treated with Interferon injections and usage of Ribavirin capsules, but i would like to know any other treatment which is more usefull then the above medicines.
Second thing i would like to know is that as the HCV patient becomes chronic and chronic what happens to the ALT level??? My brother was diagnosed with HCV a few months ago and had and ALT level around 230 or around, but today he did it again and its 183, should i believe that the damage to liver has gone low, or is it possible that due to becoming chronic his ALT level is going low but the damage is constant or more,, please guide me in this sense.
Regards,
nisar ahmad
September 29th, 2011 at 2:27 PM
HUMIRA can cause serious side effects, including:
Serious infections. These include TB and infections caused by viruses, fungi, or bacteria. Symptoms related to TB include a cough, low-grade fever, weight loss, or loss of body fat and muscle.
Hepatitis B infection in carriers of the virus. Symptoms include muscle aches, feeling very tired, dark urine, skin or eyes that look yellow, little or no appetite, vomiting, clay-colored bowel movements, fever, chills, stomach discomfort, and skin rash.
Allergic reactions. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include hives, trouble breathing, and swelling of your face, eyes, lips, or mouth.
Nervous system problems. Signs and symptoms include numbness or tingling, problems with your vision, weakness in your arms or legs, and dizziness.
Blood problems. Symptoms include a fever that does not go away, bruising or bleeding very easily, or looking very pale.
Heart failure (new or worsening). Symptoms include shortness of breath, swelling of your ankles or feet, and sudden weight gain.
Immune reactions including a lupus-like syndrome. Symptoms include chest discomfort or pain that does not go away, shortness of breath, joint pain, or rash on your cheeks or arms that gets worse in the sun.
Liver problems. Symptoms include feeling very tired, skin or eyes that look yellow, poor appetite or vomiting, and pain on the right side of your stomach (abdomen).
Psoriasis (new or worsening). Symptoms include red scaly patches or raised bumps that are filled with pus.
Source: http://www.humira.com/crohns/default.aspx
September 30th, 2011 at 3:31 PM
Hi…Just got some blood work back…in July, my AST was 21 and my ALT was 25. I have been on Enbrel for 8 months for my RA. I have not been feeling well and just gained about 35lbs in less than three months. Dry mouth, excessive thirst, really tired, headaches…now my AST is 63 and ALT and 103. I got my results online and I am a little worried that I have not heard from my dr…worried about my liver. I love my wine and will freak if I have to cut it out. I am a 42 yo woman and I have 3 kids, overweight, don’t get much exercise because of RA these days. Cholesterol is high. Any help appreciated, thanks
October 3rd, 2011 at 9:42 PM
Hi – I’m worried about my husband, 48 yo, obese. Had gall bladder surgery in May and has had several incidents of extreme abdominal pain since then. Dr. prescribed Prilosec which helped tremendously. However, ALT 86, AST 31. 10 days prior ALT was only 66. In addition to Prilosec he has regularly been taking Zyrtec. Quit taking Motrin, Tylenol, Zantac, and Advair inhaler 17 days ago . Has not been drinking past 8 weeks. Could the Prilosec or one of the other medications he is/has been taking be causing this?
October 5th, 2011 at 2:53 AM
Hi,
I have just had a laparoscopy for the removal of large (8cm) endometrial cysts on my ovary and endometriosis off the bowel and ureter, I had quite a few analgesias post surgery such as tramadol and ibuprofen, codeine and paracetamol. I went back to the hospital yesterday feeling nausea for the past 2 days. They did my blood test which revealed my alt was 119. I don’t drink and generally healthy prior to the op. Is the alt due to the drugs?
Suzanne
October 6th, 2011 at 5:00 AM
Dear Caria,
You condition doesn’t sound a mistake. Your grave disease seems to be the cause of the “anxiety” symptoms you’re having.
It’s also the probable cause for the rapid weight loss you’re having.
I highly recommend to take the warnings of your doctors seriously and start taking care yourself.
Please consult with your doctors and start taking this disease seriously.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
October 6th, 2011 at 5:07 AM
Hello Chrissy,
There is no “strict” red line in which ALT and AST levels can be determined as dangerous. What’s important is the cause that leaded the enzymes to be elevated at the first place.
But generally speaking, ALT or AST levels that are higher than normal in a matter of few dozens in ml, it could be dangerous.
In your case, a jump from 60 to 220 within 2 months is not normal. There must be a clear cause of it.
Can you please post your full blood test and ultrasound results?
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
October 6th, 2011 at 5:12 AM
Hello BillyRip,
Your liver enzyme levels are very high.
Both of the enzymes, ALT and AST, are an indication of a liver disorder. I highly suggest taking them seriously and stop drinking alcohol.
Please read the various articles in the website for further information.
Wish you all well,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
October 6th, 2011 at 5:16 AM
Hello Nasir,
There decrease of the ALT level from 230 to 183 doesn’t necessarily indicate a radical improvement in the liver condition. It just means there might be slight improvement from last time.
I highly recommend consulting with your physician for proper HCV treatment.
Ribavirin capsules are very common treatment for HCV and it’s the recommended treatment.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
October 6th, 2011 at 5:19 AM
Hello Heather,
How much alcohol do you drink? An alcoholic fatty liver is usually treated by avoiding or limiting yourself from alcohol.
It doesn’t mean you wouldn’t be able to drink alcohol at all. It just means you need to know your limits, and know that exceeding these limits can hurt your health.
Wish you well,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
October 6th, 2011 at 5:21 AM
Hello Ann,
Extreme abdominal pain could be causes by more severe diseases than a fatty liver.
Have you done an ultrasound scan for your liver?
-Mark Bar-Gomel
October 6th, 2011 at 10:02 PM
hola my question since 2009 went to my dr because paint on my righ side plus nausea they found fatty infiltration but my alt 32ul my ast 22ul test on kidney function kidney creatinine .67ml my test for sugar gucose fasting 114mg what do you think
October 6th, 2011 at 10:10 PM
forget to tell you i past a stone couple a monthas ago now still have paint but i think is from kidney problem am taking 1/2 of vicadin a day for paint in my bones
October 7th, 2011 at 5:37 AM
Hello doctor!
I was at a random blood chekup at mondays and got the following values. Would highly appreciate if you could give me your thoughts about them..
My values Normal values accroding lab reference
RBC: 6.1 M/uL 4.50.5.50 M/uL
ALT 46 U/L to 41 U/L
Bilirubin 1.31mg/dl 0-1.0
The rest of my blood values are within normal liimits.
Is this something I should be worried about?
During my summer break from july-11sept I did workout 4times/week after that i stoped, but did gain weight pretty fast during that time.
Friday 30sept, that weekend I had three 75cl beer and did the blood test the following monday 3rd oct.
could the beer or the workout/weight gain affect the values within that timeframe or has too long time passed for them to affect the values?.
otherwise I rarely drink, dont smoke or take any drugs and see my self as an healthy individual and perhaps abit too worried sometimes ..
thanks
October 7th, 2011 at 3:11 PM
I have had around 3 attacks of chronic pain in my abdomen over the past 6 months. Each ’bout’ of pain lasts around 2hours and then completely goes. Sometimes it radiates to my back. The doctor did some bloods
AST – 58
ASL – 124
the doctor suspects gallstones and im awaiting a scan in couple of weeks – do gallstones and elevated liver enzymes go hand-in hand?
many thanks
October 7th, 2011 at 3:12 PM
should say the pain in abdomen was high up in the centre and excrutiating
October 8th, 2011 at 3:07 PM
Hello, Dr.
I am 24, very active, and had a full checkup several months ago with no problems. Last Tuesday I had a very tough workout that left me sore the rest of the week. On Thursday I had routine bloodwork which found my AST to be 78 and my ALT to be 168. Could the muscle breakdown be the reason for the high enzyme values? Any input is appreciated. Thanks!
October 11th, 2011 at 1:31 AM
hello
i am currently working in China (male 26) and found that my ALT are abover 150 i then drank water for a week and ate more healthly but it went up to 190. they gave me some meds which was to help reduce the ALT but after the second week my liver started to hurt, ive always been a social drinker but have eaten far too much fatty foods over the years so it doesnt surprise me that i have a fatty liver. it still hurts on the right hand side of my stomach.
has anyone eles had any pains?
not really sure what to do as no one really speaks english
October 11th, 2011 at 6:52 PM
Hi,
I am a 25 year old female who has basically eaten badly my entire life, and rarely exercised (besides frequent walks). When I was a kid I was malnourished with my parents feeding me all sorts of cookies, chips, sugar cereals, processed fatty foods, fast foods, candy, chocolate, soda, etc. Some fruits every now and again, not often, and rarely any vegetables. Now that I am an adult, I have basically grown accustomed to this style of eating and haven’t eaten much better. I had gall stone pains that i self diagnosed myself with since I was 12, but haven’t had a flare up in a couple years now because I now know not to eat a large amount of fatty foods in one sitting…which i used to do all the time. Anyways, I went to the doctor a couple weeks ago for anxiety, and they took blood work. The liver results were: AST – 21, ALT – 76, and Alk Phos – 111. So apparently the only abnormal one is the ALT at 76 when it should be lower than 45/48 I guess. I went back 10 days later (last fri) for new anxiety symptoms, and they took another blood test. I just received a call from the nurse saying that the results were basically the same and now I have an abdominal ultrasound appt. in 2 days. The nurse didn’t give me the new ALT number, but said it was the same. So, I am wondering, with my ALT score being in the 70′s maybe 80′s, how bad is this? I don’t drink and I don’t smoke, never really have. Health issues are basically the main reason why I have anxiety in the first place, so any helpful advice would be greatly appreciated. Some things I would like to know: How dangerous is and ALT-76 score? What diseases can come of this or cause this? How treatable is this? Thank you!
October 11th, 2011 at 8:51 PM
Hi
I am 39 male, non smoker and occasional drinker, 3 glasses of wine a week and 3 glasss of bear. Slightly overweight at 99kg. Not alot of exercise and dont drink much water.
I have had rasied ALT and GGT levels for the last 10 years and no other symptioms. Currently ALT 84 and GGT 408, they have been at these levels pretty much all the time. I have had ultrasound and specialist visits but they cant find anything wrong. GP says this is normal for me to have raised levels.
Any suggestions what might be causing this and how I can reduce the levels?
Thank you
October 16th, 2011 at 1:11 AM
Hi
I am 38 year male, non smoker non alcohlic, i am 5.9 suffered from neuro muscular dystrophy, wheelchair bound and weight is about 95 or 100kg. i have done my LFTs my ALT is raised without any reaon, my hepatitis B and C negative everything seems fine.
Any suggestions what might be causing this and how I can reduce the levels?
Thank you
October 16th, 2011 at 3:14 PM
Hello,
I have had recent blood tests that show my alt 109 4 mths ago was 210, AST has been around 33. LDH 277 and GGTP 257. All other blood work is within normal range. Hepitatis has been ruled out. Just did ultrasound and they found 2 cm spot on liver. Going in for CT scan tomorrow. I am 58, female. non drinker, overweight by 20lbs. Any ideas of where this is going? Just ideas for me to research so I’m somewhat able to ask questions.
Thank You
October 18th, 2011 at 3:57 AM
Dear Mark.. I am suryaa, i am 28 year old/./ recently i had liver function test… my sgpt is 336 & sgot is 232 alcoholic …what should i do i am taking LIV 52 and Matilda Forte medicines.. please help me how to reduce my sgpt and sgot… please mac
My Height is – 178 CM
My Weight is 82.9 Kg
October 18th, 2011 at 9:32 AM
Hello Doc, I’m 36 years old, I’m lean and “healthy looking”. I have been on a high fat and very low carb diet for 6 months with generally good results in terms of how I feel…however recently I’ve had a feeling of foggyness and noticable mood changes.
I’ve taken 2 blood tests 6 weeks apart, I’m uninsured and go to a state funded clinic. I’ve asked about these results and if it would be wise to do a ultrasound test, they insist that it’s not necessary…are they just trying to cut costs and should I demand the test?
1st test results:
AST – 113
ALT- 284
ALK Phos- 124
Albumin – 4.7
2nd test:
AST- 117
ALT- 290
ALK Pos 120
Albumim 4.3
October 18th, 2011 at 10:40 AM
Just a quick question. As part of my routine physical I had test function tests and the tests were well in the normal range. But my ALT was 43. The lab max normal is 40. The doctor wants redo this test and to do more tests — which I will. But this blood was taken the day after my trainer “killed” by calf muscles — they were so sore for 4 days that I could barely walk. (And I also had a flu shot that morning.) When do you think a reasonable time would be to go back — I’ve read that sore muscles can significant elevate the ALT for more than a week.
October 19th, 2011 at 11:14 AM
Hi Dr., I have Devic’s Disease (neuromyelitis optica) and am on many medications. I have a blood test once a month to monitor. Usually everything is in the normal range. My ALT numbers usually range from 8 to 15. This month it was 41. My doctor office says they should be below 36, although I note 46 on your website. I know the number is still relatively low, but what could have made it go up so much higher than usual? I have not changed any medications, have a couple glasses of wine a few times a week, am 5’8″ and weigh about 135. I am wheelchair bound and don’t get a lot of exercise. I eat healthy. I did get a flu shot about 20 minutes before my blood draw.
Any advice would be helpful, thank you!
October 25th, 2011 at 1:13 AM
Hi Dr I’m a 41 year old Male slightly overweight with muscle aches and nausea lasting 6 months+. I am on Methotrexate and Prednisone. I am wondering if my liver has an issue as my GGT, ALT and AST have been up and down before I started on the 2 drugs and had the nausea prior also
CRP went up to 16 (is at 8 now went down to 3 then up again)
GGT 82 (been high for 6months)
ALT 49 (been high for 6 months)
AST 22 (been high for 6 months) was up to 42
Neotrophil 10.76
White cell count 13.27
Small protein in urine
Compliment C4 0.16
C-ANCA negative
CMV negative
P-ANCA negative
Hep A,B,C negative
Ferritin 517ug/l
Monocyte 1.02
Serum Amylase 164u/l
eGFR 88ml
Hbalc 6.2%
November 4th, 2011 at 6:40 AM
Hi doctor, my age is 34, female, married and my weight is 80.
My ALT level is 109 and AST level is 37 and my liver scan and abdominal scan reports are good. What does it mean? Moreover i have gall stones. Kindly tell me what does it mean. Please help me doctor.
November 9th, 2011 at 7:17 AM
Hello Shanthi,
Your results show some sort of elevated liver enzymes. It could mean a lot of different things, not necessarily a fatty liver.
What I suggest is doing an additional blood test, but focusing on liver enzymes and diseases. It could give more light to your diagnosis.
Best Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
November 9th, 2011 at 7:28 AM
Hello John,
Your drugs can cause elevated liver enzymes, including ALT and AST, so it might be the direct cause of it.
Have you also done a liver ultrasound? It could reveal if there are any other disorders.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
November 9th, 2011 at 7:35 AM
Hello Anne,
Different blood labs have different “normal range” values. It doesn’t mean 36 or 46 are incorrect.
I wouldn’t worry much that you got ALT 41. It’s relatively low, and could be a one time glitch.
You could do an additional blood test and even a liver ultrasound just to make sure everything is fine.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
November 9th, 2011 at 7:37 AM
Hello David (in Seattle),
Indeed exercise and sore muscles can cause elevated levels of liver enzymes, including ALT.
It doesn’t mean you should stop exercising, it just means to lower your pressure a bit. It shouldn’t hurt you in anyway.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
November 9th, 2011 at 7:40 AM
Hello Marc,
Both of your blood test show greatly increased liver enzymes. Bases on your eating habits, it could mean you have a fatty liver.
What I suggest to you is doing a liver ultrasound. The ultrasound can reveal if you having a fatty liver or not.
I would not be passive on this issue. Start taking your condition seriously.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
November 9th, 2011 at 9:26 AM
Hello Dr Mark
I recently had some blood tests and the first result ALT 299 a week later they were 100, the doctor was originally going to send me for a liver scan, but has now decided that i don’t need one.
He said i could take some more blood tests in 3 months.
I have RA and Sjogren Syndromes could this be the reason why?
November 9th, 2011 at 1:23 PM
I went in today and my ALT(SGPT) was 111 and my AST (SGOT)was 59
I’m 17 years old, I had no symptoms, I wasn’t even going into the doctors for
my liver. What do those levels mean? How dangerous is that?
November 9th, 2011 at 1:24 PM
No alcohol or anyother drugs, besides 150mg of Seroquel every night.
November 10th, 2011 at 12:26 PM
hello doctor i am 28 yrs married female nd pregnant(its my eighth month) my ALT and AST both are elevated very highly……………..ALT is 160 and AST 260………..please advice i am so very much worried
November 10th, 2011 at 1:04 PM
Dear Doctor:
Some time ago, it was discovered that I had slightly elevated enzyme levels in my liver. Because I had been to a party a couple of days before and had four drinks, they said to abstain from alcohol for a month and come back for a retest. I abstained (I seldom drink anyhow) and the next month my levels had risen slightly, rather than dropping. They repeated the test a month later and the levels had risen again. They sent me for an ultrasound and everything was normal. They have retested me twice more and each time the levels have risen slightly, still within the normal range, but slowly increasing. They have tested me twice for all the Hepatis and for Aids. The only medications I take are an asthma puffer (Ventolin) which I use occasionally (allergy-triggered asthma) and Premarin estrogen cream which I insert every four or five days. I don’t use street drugs or even take aspirin. The only other med I take is gravol when I fly. I avoid fast foods (food allergies) and don’t drink any herbal teas which are linked to liver function. What can be causing this? I have constant bloating and have had a large weight gain since this started. I am not diabetic and my thyroid is normal.
November 13th, 2011 at 3:30 AM
Hi Mark
Yes I just had a Abdomen ultrasound and found a cyst on one kidney and one large gallstone. My Doctor said that my has mild fatty infiltration. My liver enzymes and elevated CRP and the nausea and muscle aches were there prior to me starting on any of the meds.
Anything you can think of that could be causing these symptoms
regards
John
November 14th, 2011 at 7:29 AM
Dear Dr
I suffer with Acid reflux which makes me vomit with blood, I went to hospital; where they conducted a blood sample 7days after the sickness the result was ALT/SGPT serum Level = 119u/l high what could this suggest please
November 14th, 2011 at 1:00 PM
Hi Mark,
Here is my situation, I’m 32 years old:
1. I had my blood work done 3 months back and everything came normal except my AST – 49 and ALT – 48 (normal range for ALT is 10 – 42).
2. After 3 months, I did another round of blood work recommended by a Gastroenterologist and the AST came normal as 30 by ALT is slightly reduced as 46
3. The have also done Untrasound, Iron, Ferritin and Heptitis tests etc, everything came normal.
I’m just wondering why my ALT is 46? A year back it was only 22. Also I’m on Zantac 150mg sometimes 300mg everyday for more than a year due to Gastritis problem. Could this be the reason for my ALT increase?. I remember before I started this medication, all of my blood work was normal.
Also I workout 2 hrs a day with cardio, bench press with 100Lbs, 40lbs Shoulder press etc on alternate days. Could this result from Muscular strain or probably Zantac? My Dr. doesn’t agree to this and he has requested me to lost weight of about 20Lbs.
Please advice.
Thanks,
Sri
November 16th, 2011 at 6:50 AM
Hi,
I am 39 years male.
After the morning evening mild fever since 8-10 days,I had undergone blood and urine tests and the report is:
SGOT/AST is 85 U/L & SGPT/ALT is 65U/L,
Pale Yellow colour,Acidic with Pus cell 1-2 HPF,
Casts-Granular.
I club regularly and started gyming from 4-5 months,recently i have increased the work out with 5 km running,Tread Mills-2km & Cycling-5-6 km every dayand supportive work outs during late evening.
I am worried as doctor has asked me to undergo these tests-Ultra Sound,Urine-
Culture,Creatine,Urea,HBSAG,Anti HCV.
Please suggest.
Regards,
Amrit
November 17th, 2011 at 2:58 PM
Hi Dr,
My GGT serum results were 58 and the normal range is 5-36, please advice if this indicates that I have liver problems.
GPT (ALT) Serum were 37.
Please advice,
Thanks,
Tamara
November 23rd, 2011 at 10:44 AM
My 14-year-old son has Crohn’s – his liver levels have always been in the normal range. The last two, however, were elevated. The only thing that changed was on Oct. 26, he received a testosterone enan shot (50 mg/ml). He had bloodwork on Nov. 2 that showed liver levels at 80 AST and 70 ALT. Had Remicade infusion on Nov. 3. On Nov. 17, had bloodwork and the AST level was 104 and the ALT level was 100. All other bloodwork normal. He is 5’0″ and 78 lbs. He is very active (plays soccer, etc.) Could the testosterone shot be causing the abnormal levels? He was scheduled for another testosterone shot today, but we decided not to have it until the levels normalize.
November 23rd, 2011 at 7:22 PM
Hi, i am am 40 yr old male 320 lbs.. i am overwieght. my ast lvl is 57 and the aceptable lvl i see is is 10-40
my alt lvl is 67 and the aceptable lvl acording to Quest diagnostics is 9-60. is this a is being 14 over and 7 over my test a MAJOR problem. I am daibetic i looked up online that just being diabetic have make you have some slight overages on your tests. i am getting a ultrasound monday. i am not happy with my family practice doctor at all please help me and comment. I told my doctor they are over prescribing my diabetic meds to me cus i am eating way to much junk food and i still hit 59 to 70 on my sugar levels and im scared to to take my second dosage for the day… her comment wus just eat a bannana (LOL) and i told her i just ate 4 peices of chicken freid mashedpotatoes and 2 twinkies… and i still hit 59 on my sugar level. so i am trying to self medicate now cus whe wont lower my dosage. my problem 1000mg metphormin pill. CAn i cut in half and make 500mg out of it and it work like u can do with a viagra pill u can get a pill cutter n cut in half. or is it a coded pill and wont work this is my dilema, FYI i asked the doctor and she wouldnt tell me, i paid my deductable and didnt get anyhelp from my doctor but eat more, im already over weight i dont need help, another attempt in my opinion to over medicate and keep me in bad health so i can keep comming back n paying her salary. please help i can adjust my other meds cus they are low dosage pills i can just take less of them the pill that i cant get around is the 1000mg tablet. i need it in 500mg form n i need only 1500mg of it not 2000mg of it. thanks
joe
November 23rd, 2011 at 8:45 PM
Hi Dr,
Desperately need your knowledge. I was admitted to hospital last Friday with gripping chest pain radiating to back. Had 3 other episodes of this pain previous. I am a fit 32 year old weighing 53 kilos 5.6m tall. The prognosis was acute cholecystitis. I have gallstones and have had to ultrasounds both stating this but have no inflammation. Before finding this the docs were near certain I had esophageal spasm. The pain was not abdomen and definately chest.
I myself felt I had a liver problem due to being quite thin but had a fatty top stomach. Bad cellulite and fatty deposits everywhere. I started taking cabotts liver tone plus this has helped me so much and for the first time fat on my stomach started shrinking.
To the tests:
Fridays results:
Alt: 128 h u/ l
Ast: 337
Ld: 357
Bilirubin 21 h umol/l
Ggt 22
Today’s results:
Alt: 116
Ast: 56
Ld: 154
Bill: 6
Ggt 35
Cholesterol 5.3
Triglycerides 1
All hepatitis, iron lipase copper and auto immune are negative.
November 23rd, 2011 at 8:51 PM
Sorry had not finished, before the last bloods were taken I had liver tone plus. I wondered if that had brought the results down.
I have nausea, excessive sweating, hardly get out of bed, pain and headaches I do not have a sore gallbladder or pain. I have a normal size liver, have a referral to a gastrologist, I know they will suggest surgery what I want to know is is this a liver issue like I suspect. I drink once a week if I am lucky and don’t binge. The crippling pain in my chest comes at time of ovulation just something else I have worked out so maybe they are separate. I also live in Australia. Would appreciate your opinion thank you in advanced.
November 27th, 2011 at 8:07 AM
I am 30 years old Male. Today 27Th November 2011. I did my biochemical test. report is here. S. GPT ( ALT) result 54.0 U/L.
Please Kindly suggest me. how is risk factor.
November 30th, 2011 at 5:01 AM
Hello Dr Mark
I have appointment at gastroenterology on 13th Dec. My scan showed “significant fat” in liver. My vit D level was returned as less than 14 nmol/l. Is there a connection? My GP initially prescribed standard dose vit D, then high dose, then advised me he should maybe have only prescribed standard dose after all. He said there was no point in checking vit D levels at later stage. I find this quite strange. If I am deficient, why wouldn’t they check levels further down the line? I’ve read lack of vit D , can cause some of the symptoms I am having. I tested negative for celiac.
December 1st, 2011 at 4:08 PM
My 31 year old husband recently had some blood work done as part of a yearly physical. His absolute monocytes were out of range (985) and the normal is 950. His AST was 46 (normal is less than 40) and ALT was high as well (80) when the normal is 9-60. He has had 3 bloodwork drawn in a month and the results have been slightly higher with each draw. I realize that his levels of these are not off the charts, however we are very concerned. He had an ultrasound done and they did not find a fatty liver. My husband is severely obese (6’2 and 400 lbs).He is going to have a liver biopsy done and our primary care doctor thinks he might potentially have Mono. and has scheduled him for another blood test. He tested negative for Hepatitis. He does have a sore neck and has been battling a cold for a few days. Do you have any suggestions or recommendations? Your opinion would be greatly appreciated.
December 1st, 2011 at 11:08 PM
my Alt level 71, kindly advise h to low it.. in few days
December 5th, 2011 at 2:09 PM
Hi Dr Mark,
I’ve had a pain in my right hand side (so left hand side looking at me) for over a year now. It radiates from under the lower rib usually to the side, but sometimes from the front and back too under the navel. The pain varies from a minor ache to a burning sensation, and is noticeable and annoying rather than intolerable. Sometimes it goes completely, and other times it lasts for days. Some foods seem to make the symptoms worse, but curiously moderate alcohol consumption seems to alleviate the pain totally including the next day. Up until recently it has been nothing more than a minor annoyance and was originally diagnosed as a muscular skeletal. The only area of tenderness is right on the bone of the rib, and I also have the pain on the same rib the other side. I have had some diarrhoea over the past year too but this seems to be catalysed by certain foods and usually stress – which I am under a great deal of from work. I use Immodium to combat the diarrhoea as and when I need it and also occasionally need to take Zantac.
Whilst I am certainly not a teetotaller, I have more days free from alcohol than I drink on and would say that my weekly consumption is no more than a couple of bottles of wine, spread over 2/3 days. I have a good and well balanced diet and cook often.
I am 36 years old, weigh approx 63kg and my height is 1.57m.
I then had Norovirus a couple of weeks ago and the pain became significant so the doctor ran some tests. My liver function ALT came back as 72, with some fat in the blood. All other tests, including cholesterol etc were fine, as was the chest X Ray.
I’m going for an abdominal ultrasound soon, but having read all these threads am now getting very worried about the possible outcomes. Any advice you could give based on my symptoms would be most gratefully received!
December 14th, 2011 at 12:05 PM
Just received some results prior to a coilization surgery for a communicative artery aneurism…My AsT was 84 and ALT 187. I drink regularly but have no other symptoms other than obese… My Alk.phos was 125 and bilirubin 0.9. Your thoughts(…yes I know i need to stop drinking and retest.
December 22nd, 2011 at 4:27 PM
Hello Dr.
Happy holidays. I have read people’s comments but not one person is pregnant. Well, I am 14 weeks pregnant. The day my doctor took blood I was twelve weeks. My neck muscle was very tight. I pulled it a week before and it was still very very stiff that it was giving me headaches. It was so bad that my doc ordered an MRI ASAP to rule anything. Anyway, my ALT was 60. He said a few points over normal. All my other levels were normal. I have an itchy stomach but had it for three years. Doctors have checked my liver many times in the past and even gave me an ultrasound and concluded that the itchiness was from my crappy posture, nerves. Anyway, my doctor is not worried but I can help but fear for my baby. Could it be the muscle pull? The four days of Tylenol? I took Tylenol that afternoon? My synthroid medication? My progesterone sup? Please ease my worries.
December 24th, 2011 at 2:29 AM
hi my alt are 129 and i have been diagnosed with hep c genotype 1 can u give me an idea of what kind of diet i should have and also i workout almost 7 days a week where 3 days is just circuit routine and the other 4 days just cardio jus need to know what to change, and i also take isowhey protein twice a day…
much appreciation
navi
December 24th, 2011 at 9:00 AM
Hello My name is Bruno, I’m 27 and I did my exam day 16/12/2011 and test results showed the following data AST / TGO 50, and ALT / TGP 72, 7 years ago had a little fat in the liver , but now I’m seeing when I should have handled it, sometimes I just ate and my stoma is swollen please contact me.
December 27th, 2011 at 3:30 AM
Hello Bruno,
Your liver enzyme levels are a bit elevated according to your blood test results.
Have you done a liver ultrasound? If not, I highly you recommend you doing it. It would clearly reveal if you have a fatty liver or not.
Yours,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
December 27th, 2011 at 3:33 AM
Hello Navi,
All the information you need about the proper died can be found here in the foods for fatty liver article.
The recommended food for Hep C are about the same as fatty liver.
Wish you all well,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
December 27th, 2011 at 8:23 AM
Hello Melanie, and happy holidays.
Indeed your ALT is a bit high, but it doesn’t indicate anything really.
No matter what it’s not something dangerous to your baby.
I suggest you take additional blood test in about 2 weeks and monitor ALT.
It could have been a one-time peak.
Regards,
Dr. Mark Bar-Gomel
December 27th, 2011 at 1:27 PM
Hello Dr. I had a liver enzyme test recently, and found out that my AST was 90 and my ALT was 122. I drink beer and im cutting back, Im overweight but i have started to exercise. I take blood pressure medicine, a water pill,potassium pill, lipitor(which I havent been taking). I will have ULTRsound on my liver in a coupe days. Do I have anything to worry about?
December 27th, 2011 at 7:40 PM
Hi Dr,
I recently was hospitalized with blood clots in my lung. My Dr ordered some blood tests. My ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE test was 48 but my ALT was 284. I was on Norco every six hours for chest pain also I’ve been taking pain medss throughout the year for severe TMJ. Would the medication cause the high ALT. I’m 6’2 225 43 yrs old. Do not Smoke or drink Alcohol.
January 3rd, 2012 at 4:12 PM
Hi, had some blood work done and everything was normal except my ALT levels were 55. I’m 29 years old, 167cm weigh about 68kg. If I ever eat greasy/fatty food I feel nauseous or occasionally vomit. Could it be Gallstones ?
Thanks and regards
February 3rd, 2012 at 9:29 AM
Below are my test results for ALT over the last three years. Back in 2006, I was treated for Hepatitis C with Interferon/Ribavirin and it went into complete remission. Should I be tested for Hep C again based on these results?
ALT = 24 3/11/2009 ALT = 45 7/30/2010 ALT = 46 11/4/11