What Causes Liver Disorders? Book Liver Function Test in Vasant Kunj

27-06-2017   |   Posted By: Chhavi   |   2015 View(s)

The liver is located on the right-hand side of the belly and is the largest gland in the human body.  The liver has a reddish-brown colour and weighs about 3 pounds. It has a rubbery texture and is protected by the rib cage, which is why people normally cannot feel the liver.

What are the Functions of the Liver?

The liver performs many vital body functions. The liver filters the blood before passing it to the rest of the body. It plays a major role in making many chemicals which are essential for the proper functioning of the human body. It is also responsible for body detoxification and plays a key role in breaking down medications, drugs, insulin and other hormones in the human body. The liver is also considered as a storage unit as it stores essential chemicals and vitamins that the body requires to function properly. And last but not the least; the liver secretes bile that ends up back in the intestines.

What are the Causes and Symptoms of Liver Diseases?

There are multiple factors that can lead to Liver Diseases such as:

    Hepatitis viruses, which include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C

    Autoimmune diseases

    Genetics

    Chronic alcohol abuse

    Malnutrition

    Reactions to certain medications

The symptoms of Liver diseases are mentioned below:

The early symptoms of liver failure are such that can be due to a number of other conditions. And that is why many times it becomes hard to diagnose liver problems at an early stage. But one should always look for these early symptoms of liver diseases:

    Nausea or vomiting

    Loss of appetite

    Fatigue

    Diarrhea

When the liver disorders start progressing, the symptoms get more serious which include:

    Yellowish appearance of skin and eyes (Jaundice)

    Bleeding easily

    Swelling in abdomen and abdominal pain

    Feeling confused

    Feeling sleepy all the time

    Coma

If you experience any of the symptoms as mentioned above, do consult a Doctor.

What is a Liver Function Test?

Liver Function Tests measures the proteins, liver enzymes and bilirubin levels in the blood, which helps in determining the health of the liver.

A liver function test is done to:

    Screen for liver infections, such as Hepatitis A

    Screen for cirrhosis and determine the severity of the disease

    To monitor the liver disease (if the patient is suffering from any) and analyse how well the treatment the working

    Monitor possible side effects of medications

What are the Types of Liver Tests?

Liver Function tests are used to measure liver enzymes and proteins in the blood. If the levels of these enzymes or proteins are higher or lower than the normal levels, it can indicate a liver disorder.

Some common liver function tests are:

1.Alanine Transaminase (ALT) Test

Alanine transaminase (ALT) is an important enzyme that our body uses to break down proteins. The level of ALT increases if the liver is not functioning properly or damaged, and that is why high levels of ALT in your blood could indicate liver damage.

2. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) test.

ALP is an enzyme present in the liver, bile ducts and bone. High levels of ALP may indicate liver damage or disease, bone disease or a blocked bile duct.

3. Albumin and total protein test.

The liver makes two major proteins: Albumin and globulin; both of which perform important body functions. Low levels of these proteins may indicate that the liver is not working properly.

4. Aspartate transaminase (AST) test.

It is another important enzyme present in the liver. High levels of AST could be a sign of liver damage or disease.

5. Bilirubin test.

Bilirubin is a waste product which is created by the breakdown of red blood cells. The liver cleans bilirubin out of the body. If the liver is damaged, it means that it cannot properly process bilirubin. Thus, a high result on the bilirubin test indicates that the liver is not functioning properly.

6. Gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT)

High levels of the GGT enzyme could indicate liver or bile duct damage

7. L-lactate dehydrogenase (LD)

L-lactate dehydrogenase (LD) is an enzyme found in the liver. Higher than normal levels of this enzyme may indicate liver damage; however other health conditions can also raise the level of this particular enzyme.

8.Prothrombin time (PT)

This test is done to see how long it takes for your blood to clot. If it takes a long time for the blood to clot, that could mean that the liver is damaged. Also, certain medications that thin your blood can lead to a longer PT.

How to Get Prepared for the Test?

Consult your Doctor before going for the Liver Function Test as he or she will give you full detailed instructions on how to prepare for the test. There are certain medications and foods that can influence the results of the liver function tests; thus the doctor may ask the patient not to take certain medications, and avoid eating or drinking anything for a brief period of time before the test. Therefore, make sure to tell your Doctor about any medications you are taking before going for the test.

How to Book Liver Function Tests?

To book Liver Function Tests online, log in to www.medylife.com. You can also give us a call on 8010918080, and the test will be booked from the comfort of your home at amazingly discounted Prices with an easy and hygeenic home collection