Liver Function Studies, or LFTs, are a set of blood tests that evaluate how well your liver is performing. They measure levels of enzymes and proteins such as ALT (alanine aminotransferase), AST (aspartate aminotransferase), ALP (alkaline phosphatase) and bilirubin. When these values fall outside the normal range-either too high or too low-it signals that your liver may be inflamed, injured, or under stress.
Many people with abnormal LFTs don't notice symptoms right away. As liver stress or damage progresses, you might experience:
A variety of conditions and lifestyle factors can lead to abnormal liver tests. Common causes include:
Consult our board-certified liver specialists in Katy at GastroDoxs. We combine advanced diagnostics with personalized treatment plans to get you back on track. Book an appointment today and take control of your liver function with expert care and compassionate support.
We've successfully treated more than 5.2K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
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Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Abnormal LFTs indicate your liver may not be functioning normally. Further testing helps pinpoint the exact cause and guide treatment.
If your liver enzyme levels remain elevated or you experience symptoms like jaundice, fatigue, or abdominal discomfort, schedule an appointment with a specialist promptly.
Not always. Some providers require fasting, but your doctor or the lab will let you know if you need to avoid food or drink beforehand.
LFTs typically measure ALT, AST, ALP, GGT, bilirubin, albumin, and sometimes prothrombin time to assess liver health and function.
Yes. Heavy meals, processed foods, and alcohol can temporarily alter enzyme levels. Eating a balanced diet and avoiding alcohol before testing can help ensure accurate results.
Often, yes-especially if detected early. Lifestyle changes, medical treatment, and monitoring can restore liver function in many cases.
Mild liver issues may resolve in a few weeks with proper care. More severe conditions can take months and may require ongoing management.
Certain medications and herbal supplements can elevate liver enzymes. Always inform your doctor about any drugs or supplements you're taking.
Ignoring abnormal LFTs can allow liver damage to progress. Early evaluation and treatment are key to preventing long-term complications.
Contact GastroDoxs in Katy to connect with board-certified liver experts who provide personalized care and advanced testing.
