Can a simple blood test reveal the early signs of Liver Disease?
The liver carries out essential functions every day, such as filtering toxins, supporting digestion, and storing nutrients, often without showing any signs of distress. However, when problems begin to develop, the early signs are usually subtle.
At Long Life Speciality Clinic, the trusted pathology lab in Mukundapur, liver function tests are conducted with precision, care and expert interpretation, helping ensure early diagnosis and timely treatment.
In this blog, you will learn how liver function tests help check liver health, what the results mean, and why early testing is essential.
What is Liver Function Test?
A liver function test (LFT) is a simple yet powerful tool that can detect these early changes. It measures specific enzymes and proteins in the blood, providing valuable insights into liver health before more serious symptoms develop.
How do you know if your liver is healthy?
A healthy liver supports nearly every system in the body, and understanding how to recognise good liver function is key to maintaining overall health.
While medical tests play a crucial role in determining liver health, there are some signs of a well-functioning liver:
- Clear skin and eyes with no signs of yellowing or dullness
- Balanced energy levels throughout the day, without fatigue or weakness
- Regular digestion and bowel movements
- A healthy appetite, without unexplained nausea or loss of hunger
Can a liver function test detect liver disease?
A liver function test (LFT) is a routine blood test used to assess the health of the liver by measuring various enzymes and proteins. While it cannot diagnose a specific liver disease on its own, it plays a crucial role in early detection and monitoring.
What does a liver function test measure?
A liver function test measures key liver enzymes and proteins in the blood that indicate how well the liver is performing. These include:
ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase)
ALT is an enzyme found mainly in the liver. When liver cells are damaged or inflamed, ALT levels in the blood rise. Elevated ALT is often an early indicator of liver conditions such as hepatitis or fatty liver disease.
AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase)
AST is present in the liver, heart, muscles, and other tissues. While raised AST levels can signal liver damage, they are more meaningful when interpreted alongside ALT levels to assess the extent of liver involvement.
ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase)
ALP is an enzyme linked to the bile ducts. High ALP levels may indicate liver inflammation, bile duct obstruction, or certain bone disorders. It helps in identifying issues related to bile flow or liver structure.
Bilirubin
Bilirubin is a yellow substance produced during the normal breakdown of red blood cells. The liver helps process and remove bilirubin. When bilirubin levels are elevated, it can lead to jaundice and may suggest liver dysfunction or bile duct issues.
Albumin
Albumin is a protein made by the liver that helps maintain fluid balance in the blood and transports hormones, vitamins, and drugs. Low albumin levels may indicate reduced liver function or chronic liver disease.
What is Stage 1 Liver Disease?
Stage 1 Liver Disease marks the beginning of liver damage, often characterised by inflammation, a condition commonly referred to as hepatitis. This inflammation may result from various causes, including
- excessive alcohol consumption
- viral infections
- autoimmune disorders
- an accumulation of toxins
At this early stage, symptoms are often minimal or completely absent, making the condition difficult to detect without medical testing.
Stage 1 liver disease is usually reversible. With timely diagnosis, appropriate treatment and lifestyle modifications such as a healthy diet, reduced alcohol intake, and regular monitoring the liver can often recover before further damage occurs.
Conclusion
Liver disease often starts silently. But with regular screening and attention to early signs, it is possible to catch problems before they progress. A liver function test may not provide all the answers, but it is an important starting point in protecting your health.
At Long Life Speciality Clinic, the trusted pathology lab in Mukundapur, book your liver function test today and take a proactive step toward better liver health.