How Often Should You Monitor Liver Health and Uric Acid Levels?

Q: How Often Should You Monitor Liver Health and Uric Acid Levels?

Hello： <br>1. <br>Last year, liver function tests were normal, but this year the liver index is 71. <br>It is unclear how it fluctuated throughout the year; it may have been higher at some point and has recently decreased, or it could currently be at its peak. <br>It is recommend

How often should follow-up examinations be conducted?

First of all, thank you, Dr.
Tsai, for your previous response.
Last month's blood test results showed: 1.
SGPT 71 (reference range 4-44) 2.
Triglycerides 132 (50-130) 3.
Uric acid 11.6 (3.6-8).
These three values are elevated, while the others are normal.
An abdominal ultrasound indicated fatty liver.
At that time, my height was 173 cm and weight was 77 kg.
The doctor prescribed Sulfin 100 mg to be taken after breakfast, which I have been taking for a month, along with advice to drink plenty of water, exercise moderately, and reduce oil and salt intake.
Today, I weighed 74 kg and have been following the dietary and medication advice.
I would like to ask Dr.
Tsai if fatty liver and elevated uric acid levels can potentially return to normal or even heal? Thank you, Dr.
Tsai, for taking the time to respond.
(I do not smoke or drink alcohol, but my previous diet was less restricted, and my exercise was also limited.
Now, in addition to monitoring my diet, I have been jogging.)
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(Above the dashed line is my previous question)
I would like to ask Dr.
Tsai again: 1.
Last year, my liver function tests were normal.
Is an SGPT of 71 considered high or a rapid increase after one year? (I have gained nearly 10 kg over the past four years.) 2.
I have heard that exercise can raise uric acid levels.
I went jogging (5 km) the evening before the blood draw; could this have affected the results the next morning? 3.
After taking Sulfin 100 mg for a month, how often does Dr.
Tsai recommend follow-up visits to monitor liver function and uric acid levels? 4.
Is it necessary to go to a large hospital for follow-up, or can I have blood tests done at general internal medicine or gastroenterology clinics that offer these services? (I have a history of mitral valve prolapse and hereditary anemia, and I found out about my liver function issues after a follow-up visit to a cardiologist who arranged for blood tests due to my previous discomfort.) Thank you, Dr.
Tsai, for your response.

Awei, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/08/25

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello:
1.
Last year, liver function tests were normal, but this year the liver index is 71.
It is unclear how it fluctuated throughout the year; it may have been higher at some point and has recently decreased, or it could currently be at its peak.
It is recommended to monitor liver function and uric acid levels every three months, and once stable, extend the follow-up period to six months or one year.
2.
Exercise can lead to dehydration, which may increase uric acid concentration in the blood.
It is advisable to hydrate adequately after exercising and to avoid large meals post-exercise, as this can increase the risk of gout attacks.
3.
For your concerns, you only need to visit a hospital that can perform blood tests.
Additionally, for monitoring fatty liver, you should seek a facility that offers liver ultrasound examinations.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.

Dr.
Tsai An-shun

Reply Date: 2012/08/25

More Info

Monitoring liver health and uric acid levels is crucial for maintaining overall health, especially when previous tests have indicated abnormalities. Based on your recent blood test results, which show elevated levels of SGPT (71 U/L), triglycerides (132 mg/dL), and uric acid (11.6 mg/dL), it is essential to establish a regular monitoring schedule and implement lifestyle changes to manage these conditions effectively.

Frequency of Monitoring
1. Liver Health (SGPT and Other Liver Enzymes):
- Given that your SGPT level is significantly above the normal range (4-44 U/L), it is advisable to monitor your liver function more frequently. A follow-up blood test should ideally be conducted every 3 months to assess whether your liver enzymes are improving with dietary changes and medication (sulfin 100 mg).

- If your liver enzymes return to normal levels, you may then extend the monitoring interval to every 6 months or even annually, depending on your physician's recommendations.

2. Uric Acid Levels:
- Your uric acid level of 11.6 mg/dL is also elevated (normal range is typically 3.6-8 mg/dL). Similar to liver health, it is recommended to check uric acid levels every 3 months initially. This will help determine if the dietary modifications and medication are effective in lowering uric acid levels.

- Once your levels stabilize within the normal range, you can consider reducing the frequency of testing to every 6 months.

Lifestyle Modifications
To support the management of both liver health and uric acid levels, consider the following lifestyle changes:
- Dietary Adjustments:
- For Liver Health: Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit saturated fats, sugars, and processed foods. Avoid alcohol entirely, as it can exacerbate liver issues.

- For Uric Acid: Reduce intake of purine-rich foods such as red meats, organ meats, shellfish, and certain fish. Limit sugary beverages and foods high in fructose. Increase hydration by drinking plenty of water, which helps flush uric acid from the body.

- Physical Activity:
- Regular exercise can help manage weight and improve liver function. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. Since you mentioned you are already jogging, continue with that routine while gradually increasing your activity level.

Follow-Up Care
- Consultation with Healthcare Providers:
- Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential, especially given your history of elevated liver enzymes and uric acid levels. Your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as imaging studies (ultrasound) or further blood tests, to monitor liver health and assess for conditions like fatty liver disease.

- If your liver enzymes remain elevated or if you experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, jaundice, or significant fatigue, further evaluation may be necessary.

- Specialist Referrals:
- Depending on your ongoing results and symptoms, your primary care physician may refer you to a hepatologist (liver specialist) or a rheumatologist (for gout management related to high uric acid levels) for more specialized care.

Conclusion
In summary, regular monitoring of liver health and uric acid levels is vital, especially in light of your recent test results. Aim for follow-up tests every 3 months initially, and make necessary lifestyle changes to support your health. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and adjustments to your monitoring schedule based on your progress. By taking proactive steps, you can work towards improving your liver function and managing uric acid levels effectively.

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