The Dangers of Elevated Liver Enzymes
An increase in liver enzymes may indicate improper liver function, highlighting that elevated liver enzyme levels are often a consequence of underlying health conditions affecting the liver. Below are some health issues associated with elevated liver enzymes:
- Fatty liver disease, the most common cause of elevated liver enzymes.
- Metabolic syndrome.
- Hepatitis infections.
- Alcohol or drug use disorders.
- Cirrhosis, a condition characterized by scarring of liver tissue.
Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease occurs when excess fat accumulates in the liver. Often, this condition doesn’t produce noticeable symptoms; however, it can sometimes lead to fatigue and pain in the right side of the abdomen. If the fat accumulation is a result of alcohol consumption, it is termed alcoholic fatty liver disease. Conversely, fat accumulation not caused by alcohol is referred to as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It’s important to note that individuals with metabolic syndrome are at a higher risk for developing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Metabolic Syndrome
Metabolic syndrome refers to a cluster of risk factors that increase the likelihood of heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues. While a person may have only one risk factor, it is common to have several. For the condition to be categorized as metabolic syndrome, an individual must present with at least three of the following factors:
- Abdominal obesity, indicated by a high waist circumference.
- Elevated triglyceride levels.
- Low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, known as “good” cholesterol since it helps remove cholesterol from arteries.
- Hypertension.
- Fasting high blood sugar levels.
Viral Hepatitis
Viral hepatitis constitutes a group of diseases that lead to inflammation of the liver, including hepatitis A, B, and C, each with distinct symptoms and treatments. Interestingly, not everyone infected will exhibit symptoms, while others may experience:
- Loss of appetite.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Dark colored urine.
- Weak bowel movements.
- Abdominal pain.
- Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Alcohol and Drug Use Disorders
Excessive alcohol consumption or the use of illicit drugs can lead to liver inflammation and damage. Inflammation arising from alcohol intake is termed alcoholic hepatitis, while drug-induced liver inflammation is referred to as toxic hepatitis. When a person exhibits symptoms of substance use disorders, healthcare providers will check liver enzyme levels and provide appropriate treatment and support. Notably, symptoms of liver inflammation in both scenarios are similar to those of other types of hepatitis.
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis represents a late stage of liver scarring resulting from various liver diseases including chronic hepatitis and long-term alcohol use. Symptoms of cirrhosis may include fatigue and itchy skin, and individuals are at high risk for further complications if hepatitis or fatty liver diseases remain untreated. While cirrhosis cannot reverse existing liver damage, early diagnosis and intervention can help limit further harm.
Other Liver Diseases and Conditions
The liver is susceptible to various other diseases and issues not previously mentioned, including:
- Autoimmune hepatitis, which involves inflammation due to an autoimmune disorder.
- Excessive use of over-the-counter pain relievers, particularly acetaminophen.
- Some prescription medications, including statins for cholesterol management.
- Celiac disease, which damages the small intestine from gluten.
- Cytomegalovirus infection.
- Hemochromatosis, characterized by iron overload in the body.
- Liver cancer.
- Mononucleosis.
- Polymyositis, an inflammatory disease causing muscle weakness.
- Sepsis, a severe infection affecting the bloodstream.
- Thyroid disorders.
- Wilson’s disease, which involves copper accumulation in the body.
- Epstein-Barr virus infection, a member of the herpes virus family.
Symptoms of Elevated Liver Enzymes
Typically, elevated liver enzymes do not present noticeable symptoms. However, healthcare providers may check for elevated enzyme levels in the following circumstances:
- Patients with hepatitis may exhibit symptoms such as:
- Jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin, eyes, and mucous membranes due to liver issues.
- Abdominal pain and swelling.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Dark urine.
- Pale-colored stools.
- General weakness.
- Fatigue.
- Loss of appetite.
- Excessive alcohol consumption or drug use.
- A family history of liver diseases.
- Obesity.
- Diabetes.
Symptoms of mildly to moderately elevated liver enzymes can range from no symptoms at all to general symptoms such as:
- Discomfort.
- Fatigue.
- Fever.
- Loss of appetite.
- Abdominal pain.
- Jaundice.
- Itching.
- Nausea and vomiting.
Tips for Maintaining Liver Health
The liver is a crucial organ in the body’s digestive system, processing everything consumed or ingested, including medications. Addressing any liver issues is essential for maintaining optimal health. Adopting a healthy lifestyle and following these guidelines can support liver health:
- Avoid alcohol, as it is toxic to the liver, capable of causing cell damage, leading to inflammation or scarring, which can progress to life-threatening cirrhosis.
- Adopt a balanced diet and engage in regular exercise to maintain a healthy body weight, which can prevent nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, a condition that may lead to cirrhosis.
- Avoid exposure to chemicals found in certain cleaning products, pesticides, and aerosols, which can be toxins harmful to the liver.
- Refrain from smoking to prevent additives in cigarettes from damaging the liver.
- Manage blood sugar levels effectively, especially for individuals with diabetes.
- Avoid recreational drugs such as heroin and cocaine.
- Be cautious with herbal supplements and inform your doctor if you are using them, as some can be detrimental to liver health. A few examples include cascara, chaparral, comfrey, kava, and ephedra.
- Monitor specific medications, as some cholesterol-lowering medications may have liver-related side effects. Overuse of certain medications, such as acetaminophen, which is found in many cold and pain medications, can also be harmful. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider or pharmacist about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs.
- Keep cholesterol and blood lipid levels within acceptable ranges.
- Protect the liver from viral infections, which pose a serious threat, and undergo testing for viral hepatitis, as it often presents without symptoms. If there is a suspicion of infection, consult a healthcare provider for appropriate tests. Various types of viral hepatitis require specific preventative measures:
- Hepatitis A is transmitted through contaminated food or water; thus, it is recommended to adhere to food safety guidelines and ensure clean drinking water and food. A vaccine is available for travel to regions with outbreaks.
- Hepatitis B and C spread through blood and bodily fluids. Preventive measures include not sharing personal items like toothbrushes or razors, and using condoms during sexual activity to reduce infection risk. A vaccine exists for hepatitis B, whereas no vaccine is currently available for hepatitis C.
Video on the Effects of Elevated Liver Enzymes
The liver is one of the most vital organs in the human body. What are the effects of elevated liver enzymes?