Understanding Elevated ALT Levels
A 25-year-old woman has recently undergone a blood test, and the results came back satisfactory for most parameters, which include bilirubin, alkaline phosphate, AST, and protein levels. However, she found that her ALT level was elevated, landing at 37, while the typical range is noted to be between 10 and 35. She noted that some individuals online reported significantly higher results, sometimes even in the hundreds, which has directed her concern toward her own slightly elevated reading. Seeking clarity and guidance on what this means is her priority.
Answers (1)
6/21/2025, 2:20:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
Main Point: An ALT level of 37, while slightly elevated, is typically not a cause for immediate concern, especially when other liver function indicators are normal. Understanding possible reasons for this elevation can help guide next steps.
Explanation: ALT, or alanine aminotransferase, is an enzyme found mainly in the liver. It helps in breaking down proteins and is a marker used to assess liver health. Normal ALT levels usually range between 10 and 35 U/L, depending on the lab. An elevated ALT level can indicate liver inflammation or damage, but slight elevations like yours (ALT 37) can have many benign causes, such as physical activity, diet, or even minor infections.
It’s also important to recognize that slightly elevated ALT levels like yours are not uncommon and often do not indicate serious health issues. Significant elevations (in the hundreds) can suggest more serious liver conditions, which is the context that might be leading to your worry when reading others' experiences online.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any new symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), fatigue, or abdominal discomfort. If you notice any of these, it may warrant further attention.
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Review Lifestyle Factors: Consider if there have been any recent changes in your diet, exercise routine, or alcohol consumption. Reducing alcohol intake and maintaining a balanced diet can help support liver health.
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Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water and maintain a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which can help improve overall health.
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Consider Follow-Up Testing: If you remain concerned, you might plan to have your ALT levels retested in a few months to see if they normalize.
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Avoid Online Comparisons: Lastly, remember that individual health is complex—what might be concerning for one person may not apply to another. Focus on your health context rather than others’ experiences.
Let me know if you have any further questions or need clarification on any of these points!
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