Elevated Liver Enzymes and Fatigue: Key Insights - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Q: Elevated Liver Enzymes and Fatigue: Key Insights

Hello： Values within the normal range are considered normal. There is no need to worry excessively. Medications that can be avoided should not be taken unless absolutely necessary. Changhua Hospital cares about your health. Dr. Tsai An-shun.

Elevated liver enzymes and fatigue?

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing unusual fatigue, loss of appetite, and alternating chills and fever for about a month.
My health check report regarding liver function shows that both GOT and GPT are at 25 (max.
35), while GGT is at 63 (max.
64), indicating mild fatty liver.
Although these values fall within the standard range, they have increased by more than 10 compared to a diagnosis made a year and a half ago, and GGT has doubled from the previous value (I do not have a habit of drinking alcohol; I weigh 55 kg and am 164 cm tall).
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
I have had poor sleep quality over the past year and have been using anti-anxiety medication and sleeping pills for a long time.
If these medications are the cause, will stopping them lead to improvement? 2.
I was taking antibiotics for a vaginal infection and a cold before and after the blood test; could this affect the results? Thank you very much for your patient reading.

Xinxin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/17

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: Values within the normal range are considered normal.
There is no need to worry excessively.
Medications that can be avoided should not be taken unless absolutely necessary.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-shun.

Reply Date: 2017/05/17

More Info

Elevated liver enzymes, particularly AST (GOT) and ALT (GPT), can be indicative of liver inflammation or damage. In your case, while your values of 25 for both AST and ALT are within the normal range (max 35), your GGT level of 63 is at the higher end of normal (max 64) and indicates a potential issue, especially since it has doubled compared to your previous results. Additionally, the presence of mild fatty liver can also contribute to feelings of fatigue and decreased appetite, as the liver plays a crucial role in metabolism and energy regulation.

1. Impact of Sleep Quality and Medication: Chronic poor sleep quality can significantly affect liver function. Sleep is essential for the body's recovery processes, including liver regeneration. Long-term use of anti-anxiety medications and sleep aids can also influence liver enzyme levels. Some medications are metabolized by the liver, and their prolonged use may lead to liver stress or damage. If your elevated liver enzymes are indeed related to these medications, discontinuing them under medical supervision could potentially lead to an improvement in liver function. However, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen to avoid withdrawal symptoms or exacerbation of anxiety.

2. Effect of Antibiotics on Liver Enzymes: Antibiotics can also impact liver enzyme levels, especially if they are metabolized by the liver. Certain antibiotics may cause liver enzyme elevations as a side effect, particularly if taken in higher doses or for extended periods. If you were on antibiotics for a vaginal infection and a cold around the time of your blood test, it is possible that they could have influenced your liver enzyme levels. It is advisable to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you were taking prior to the blood test, as this information is crucial for accurate interpretation of your results.

In summary, while your liver enzyme levels are currently within normal limits, the increase compared to previous tests and the elevated GGT level warrant further investigation. It is essential to monitor these levels regularly, especially given your history of poor sleep and medication use. Lifestyle modifications, such as improving sleep hygiene, reducing stress, and maintaining a balanced diet, can support liver health. Additionally, regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider, including liver function tests and possibly imaging studies, can help assess the progression of any liver-related issues.

Lastly, if you experience persistent symptoms such as fatigue, loss of appetite, or any new symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Early intervention can help prevent potential complications related to liver health, including the risk of fatty liver disease progressing to more severe conditions like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or cirrhosis.

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