Elevated Liver Enzyme Levels
On August 24, I received a positive COVID-19 test result, with symptoms starting a couple of days earlier on August 22. Beginning August 25, I underwent treatment with Paxlovid and Prednisone. Yesterday, I visited my doctor for an unrelated issue, and she requested some blood tests. When the results came back, it revealed elevated liver enzyme levels, alongside a few other abnormal findings, while the rest remained within normal ranges. Is it possible that these elevated levels could be attributed to my body still healing from COVID? Test Results: - ALT: 240 U/L - AST: 40 U/L - Absolute Lymphocytes: 1.36 - Monocyte Percentage: 12 I am a 26-year-old female, weighing 160 pounds and standing at 5 feet 6 inches tall. My medical history includes ADHD, Asthma, and Anxiety, but I have not experienced any significant health problems prior to this.
Answers (1)
9/13/2025, 3:20:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
Elevated liver enzyme levels can result from several factors, including viral infections, medication reactions, and other underlying health issues. In your case, it's possible that the elevation in liver enzymes could be linked to your recent COVID-19 infection, as liver inflammation can occur with viral illnesses like COVID-19. Additionally, medications you took (like Paxlovid or Prednisone) can also have effects on liver function.
Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes
- ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) and AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase): These enzymes are indicators of liver health. Elevated levels can signal inflammation or damage to liver cells.
- Lymphocytes and Monocytes: These are part of your immune system and can vary during infections, but they are less directly related to liver function.
Next Steps to Consider
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any new symptoms, such as fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), dark urine, or abdominal pain.
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Review Medications: Check if you are still taking any medications and discuss with your doctor whether these may be contributing to liver enzyme elevation.
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Follow-Up Testing: It's important to follow up with your doctor to repeat liver enzyme tests in a few weeks to see if there is any improvement. Your doctor may order additional tests to assess liver function more thoroughly if enzyme levels remain elevated.
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Hydration and Diet: Maintain a balanced diet and stay well-hydrated. Avoid alcohol and limit fatty foods, as these can stress the liver.
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Rest and Recovery: Ensure you are allowing your body enough time to recover from COVID-19 and minimize stress where possible.
If you experience any significant changes or concerning symptoms, please prioritize further medical evaluation. It's great that you're staying proactive about your health—continue to monitor your condition closely, and reach out to your healthcare provider with any concerns.
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