Concerns About Mysterious Purple Bruises on Forehead and Elevated Liver Enzymes
Hello everyone, For some time now, I've noticed recurring purple bruises forming on my forehead. They are not accompanied by any pain, merely appearing as dark splotches, and I can’t recall bumping my head into anything to cause them. They typically fade after a few days, but they tend to reappear in the same spot. I recently underwent blood tests and discovered that my liver enzymes—specifically AST, ALT, and alkaline phosphatase—are elevated. (I have yet to follow up with my doctor about this.) In addition, I have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), I’m currently taking Zepbound, and I’m in the process of trying to lose some weight. I do not consume alcohol nor am I using Tylenol or any medication known to thin the blood. Should this situation cause me concern?
Answers (1)
7/9/2025, 3:30:59 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned about the purple bruises and elevated liver enzymes you've noticed. These symptoms can have various causes, and it's important to investigate them further.
Explanation
Recurring purple bruises without a clear cause can be related to several factors, such as:
- Blood Clotting Issues: Some conditions affect how your blood clots, leading to easy bruising.
- Vascular Fragility: Blood vessels may become more fragile due to underlying health conditions, including hormonal imbalances from PCOS or other related factors.
Elevated liver enzymes (AST, ALT, and alkaline phosphatase) could indicate liver inflammation or damage. This could stem from conditions unrelated to alcohol consumption or medications, such as fatty liver disease, which is sometimes seen in individuals with PCOS or those who are overweight.
Next Steps
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Monitor Bruise Patterns:
- Keep a record of the bruises and any associated symptoms (size, duration, any new spots, etc.).
- Note any additional symptoms that may develop, such as fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), or changes in urine/stool color.
-
Follow-Up on Liver Enzymes:
- Schedule a follow-up visit with your healthcare provider to discuss your elevated liver enzymes. They may want to perform additional tests to determine the cause.
- Ask about tests for blood clotting disorders, if not already done.
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Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle:
- Continue focusing on weight loss through a balanced diet and regular exercise, as this can positively impact both liver health and PCOS symptoms.
- Ensure you’re eating foods rich in antioxidants, and consider a diet that supports liver health (like incorporating leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish).
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Consider Blood Thinning Conditions:
- Discuss with your doctor whether any tests for conditions that affect blood clotting or platelet counts might be appropriate.
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Stay Educated and Watch for Changes:
- Educate yourself on the potential side effects of any medications you're on, including Zepbound, and discuss these with your healthcare provider if necessary.
Your situation merits consideration and follow-up with a professional, especially regarding the elevated liver enzymes. Stay proactive in communicating with your healthcare team about your symptoms and concerns. Let me know if you have further questions!
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