Is It Jaundice? Elevated Liver Enzyme Levels
I’m a 29-year-old female currently in the process of stopping alcohol consumption with the help of naltrexone. Recently, my liver enzyme tests came back with ALT levels at 197 and AST levels around 193. My healthcare provider has reassured me that my liver is sufficiently healthy for the use of naltrexone as I work to reduce my alcohol intake. However, since starting the medication, I've noticed some changes in my eyes, such as the appearance of darker patches. I'm concerned this might be a sign of jaundice. Could this indication be an early sign of jaundice? Is it possible for symptoms to manifest this quickly? I'm currently on day four of naltrexone treatment and would like to hear others' experiences or advice.
Answers (1)
8/8/2025, 7:20:51 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you're concerned about your liver health, especially considering your recent liver enzyme results and changes in your eyes. Elevated liver enzymes, particularly ALT and AST, can indicate liver stress or damage, but they don’t always correlate directly with jaundice.
Key Points:
- Elevated liver enzymes can occur for various reasons, including alcohol use and liver conditions.
- Jaundice is primarily characterized by yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, but darker patches in the eyes can sometimes indicate other issues.
- It’s good that your healthcare provider is monitoring your liver health while you’re taking naltrexone, which can sometimes cause liver enzyme elevations, but it still requires attention.
Explanation:
Jaundice happens when there's an excess of bilirubin in the blood, which can result from liver dysfunction or certain conditions. The darker patches you’re seeing in your eyes could be related to a variety of factors, including changes in the pigmentation in your eyes or the early signs of liver issues, but they don't entirely confirm jaundice. Immediate signs of jaundice usually involve a more pronounced yellowing of the skin and the sclera (the white part of your eyes).
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close watch on your symptoms. Look for any yellowing of your skin and eyes, changes in urine color (dark urine is a concern), or increased fatigue. If these occur, it would warrant immediate attention.
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Hydration and Diet: Stay well-hydrated and focus on a balanced diet that supports liver health, including fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Avoid alcohol and other substances that can put further strain on your liver.
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Follow-Up Testing: Ensure you have regular follow-up appointments to monitor your liver enzymes. Discuss any changes you notice with your healthcare provider, including the changes in your eyes.
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Document Changes: Consider maintaining a journal of your symptoms and any changes you observe, including the state of your eyes. This information can be very helpful for your healthcare provider in assessing your condition.
Feeling uncertain is completely normal during this journey, and it's important to take proactive steps to safeguard your health. If your symptoms worsen or you have further concerns, reach out to your healthcare provider. You're taking significant steps toward healthier choices, and staying informed is vital. Let me know if you have any other questions!
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