Understanding Elevated Liver Enzymes
Greetings everyone, I’m a 41-year-old woman navigating some health concerns and would appreciate any insights regarding liver and gallbladder function. Recently, my blood tests indicated elevated liver enzymes, prompting my physician to schedule an urgent referral for an ultrasound. As a type 2 diabetic (a condition that runs in my family rather than stemming from lifestyle choices), I maintain a generally balanced diet, indulging in treats only occasionally. I abstain from alcohol entirely, despite a period of heavy drinking in my late teens and early twenties. Additionally, I steer clear of recreational drugs, having only experimented in my younger years. My routine involves regular exercise, although my job is predominantly sedentary, and I’m limited to gentle activities due to fibromyalgia. I also contend with suspected AuADHD, PCOS, and anxiety/PTSD, and frequently experience a dull ache in the diaphragm and rib area, though I’m uncertain of its connection to my liver health. I’m seeking clarity on what my test results might indicate. My hope is that it could be a fatty liver situation, but I’m perplexed by how that could be possible given my generally wholesome eating habits. Moreover, if that diagnosis were the case, I wonder about the appropriate steps for managing it, especially considering my balanced diet. My current medications include: - Lantus insulin - Jardiance - Atomoxetine (Strattera) - Galvumet - Loratadine - Sertraline Here are my liver function test results, with the elevated GGT being particularly concerning for my doctor, especially given my lack of alcohol consumption: - Bilirubin: 9 umol/L (normal range: 2-20) - Alkaline phosphatase: 138 u/L (normal range: 40-110) - GGT: 333 u/L (normal range: <50) - ALT: 45 u/L (normal range: <45) - Protein: 70 g/L (normal range: 66-84) - Albumin: 37 g/L (normal range: 32-48) - Globulin: 33 g/L (normal range: 25-41) The comment from my report suggests considering possible obstruction either within or outside the liver, such as from drugs, gallstones, or other lesions. I’m a bit lost about what to expect next and would greatly appreciate feedback on my situation. How serious are these results? What should I realistically be concerned about? Thank you for taking the time to read this lengthy message; I aimed to provide all necessary details.
Answers (1)
9/14/2025, 5:30:52 AM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your health concerns and for providing such detailed information about your situation. It’s completely understandable to feel apprehensive after receiving findings of elevated liver enzymes. Let’s break down what these results could mean and outline what steps you might consider next.
Main Points:
- Elevated liver enzymes may indicate a liver issue, but the cause varies.
- Given your medical history and lifestyle, a fatty liver is a possibility.
- It's important to monitor symptoms and follow up with your healthcare provider.
Explanation:
Your liver enzyme results suggest that there is some inflammation or possibly damage to your liver; this is reflected in the notably high Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase (GGT) level. The liver is responsible for processing various substances in the body, including medications and byproducts from our metabolism, and elevated enzymes can indicate that it's under strain. Given that you don't consume alcohol and maintain a generally balanced diet, the presence of a fatty liver (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD) could be plausible, particularly in the context of type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance.
The ultrasound is a valuable next step as it can help visualize your liver and rule out structural issues, such as gallstones or other obstructions, which might be contributing to your elevated enzyme levels.
Next Steps:
-
Await Ultrasound Results: The ultrasound will provide important insights and should help clarify whether there are any structural problems affecting your liver. Keep track of any symptoms like pain, nausea, or changes in urine or stool color, and report these to your healthcare provider.
-
Focus on Diet and Exercise:
- Diet: Even if you feel your diet is balanced, consider reducing saturated fats and sugars, which can contribute to fat accumulation in the liver. Incorporate more whole foods, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like those from fish and nuts.
- Physical Activity: Given your limitations, aim for gentle exercises that you can tolerate. Activities like walking, stretching, or yoga can be beneficial. Finding ways to integrate activity into your day, even in small amounts, may help manage both your liver health and fibromyalgia.
-
Manage Diabetes Effectively: Continue monitoring your blood sugar levels, as optimal diabetes management can significantly affect liver health. Discuss with your healthcare provider if any adjustments in your diabetes medications might be warranted.
-
Follow-Up on Pain Symptoms: Since you're experiencing a dull ache in the diaphragm and rib area, it might be worth discussing this with your physician since it could be related to liver issues or something else entirely.
-
Stay Informed: Once you receive the ultrasound results, discuss with your healthcare provider what the findings mean and what potential lifestyle changes or treatments they would recommend based on the diagnosis.
Remember, while elevated liver enzymes can be concerning, many conditions are manageable with appropriate lifestyle adjustments and medical care. You are taking an essential first step by seeking information and staying proactive about your health. Please don’t hesitate to share any more questions or updates as you navigate this process.
Related Questions
Chronic Joint Pain Since Childhood
Since I was eight years old, I’ve endured intense and persistent pain in my joints. Initially, the discomfort was primarily in my knees, characterized by a sharp sensation right beneath the kneecap. As someone on the autism spectrum, I often visualize a strange, soothing thought: the idea of removing my kneecap and using an ice cream scoop to relieve the pressure underneath it. My parents sought help from several medical professionals, all of whom attributed my symptoms to growing pains. I even underwent cancer screenings at the age of nine because doctors felt my level of discomfort was excessive for mere growing pains. At school, I frequently had to wear dual knee braces. When I turned 14, I had a CT scan, but the results were inconclusive; doctors continued to insist it was just growing pains. At 18, I had an X-ray that also revealed nothing abnormal. Now at 20, my joint pain persists and is progressively worsening. My hands now ache in addition to my knees, and on particularly bad days, the pain radiates down to my ankles, making walking and sleeping almost impossible for half the week. The discomfort has entirely hindered my ability to work. My family and I strongly suspect that I may have some form of arthritis, but I struggle to convince the medical community of this due to my young age. My father, who suffers from arthritis himself, often empathizes when I express my pain, telling me, "that sounds familiar." I have broken down in front of numerous doctors, pleading for assistance, yet I consistently leave without answers, only to be scheduled for more scans that come back normal. The medical care I have received thus far has been far from satisfactory; for instance, I was prescribed eye drops that nearly resulted in serious damage to my vision when I consulted an eye specialist. This is just one of many frustrating experiences I’ve faced. I feel completely overwhelmed and in agony, and I have no way to reach out for specialized medical help since my only means of transportation is my father, who is also afflicted by arthritis. I feel lost and in deep pain without a clear path forward.
Seeking Guidance on Persistent Chest Discomfort After Extensive Testing
I'm a 43-year-old male, standing at 5'11" and weighing 180 pounds. My journey began around March to April of 2025 when, despite regularly hitting the gym four times a week, I was struck by severe chest pain along with frequent belching and a tight feeling in my diaphragm. At times, the pain became so intense that I feared it might be a heart attack. **Medical History:** In May 2019, I received a diagnosis of **PVS** and have since been under the care of a cardiac electrophysiologist. Upon experiencing these new symptoms, I consulted my EP, who conducted an EKG right then and set me up with a 7-day heart monitor. The results showed no irregularities. Subsequently, I was directed to a cardiologist, who carried out both a **stress test** and an **echocardiogram**, both of which yielded normal findings. Afterward, I returned to my primary care physician, who speculated that my gallbladder might be involved. An **ultrasound** was performed but revealed no issues. I then requested a **chest X-ray**, which also came back normal. My PCP then considered the possibility of a **hiatal hernia** and referred me to a gastroenterologist; unfortunately, that appointment took almost **five months** to materialize. In the meantime, my symptoms persisted, prompting me to cease weightlifting and switch my focus to **cardio and running**. Surprisingly, these activities didn’t exacerbate my symptoms, though the chest pain remained constant. When I finally saw the gastroenterologist, they suggested an **upper endoscopy**, which took another roughly three months to arrange. During this procedure, I was diagnosed with **Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EOE)**, a condition I had not previously experienced. The doctors also placed a pH monitoring device for acid reflux assessment, which indicated **no unusual acid exposure**. Following this, I began a treatment plan that included a swallowed steroid inhaler and an increased dosage of **omeprazole**. Sixty days later, I underwent another endoscopy, which showed that the EOE had largely resolved, with minimal residual symptoms. Unfortunately, my chest discomfort persisted without any improvement. It has now been about **a year** since these issues emerged, and I still have not found substantial relief. A recent chest MRI completed at a dedicated imaging center revealed no abnormalities. I entertained the idea of **costochondritis**, but again, the MRI did not support that hypothesis. The only minor relief I find comes from consciously pulling my shoulders back and expanding my chest. I continue to experience discomfort around my **diaphragm** and tenderness in the area of the **xiphoid process**. My PCP prescribed a steroid pack, which was somewhat beneficial for the pain but failed to alleviate the pressure or constant discomfort. At this juncture, I feel quite lost and uncertain about my next steps. I would greatly appreciate any insights or experiences from others who have faced similar issues. Additionally, if there are any physicians here willing to offer advice, I am open to traveling to find the answers or relief I'm desperately seeking.
Understanding the Reality of End-Stage Pancreatic Cancer
Navigating the complexities of end-stage pancreatic cancer can be overwhelming, and I'm seeking clarity on what lies ahead. My mother, who is 59 years old and weighs about 115 pounds, received her diagnosis of terminal pancreatic cancer in October 2025. Unfortunately, she has largely rejected the option of chemotherapy and is consuming her pain relief medications—specifically oxycodone and morphine—at an alarming rate. While I’m not worried about the dosage, the severity of her pain has reached a level that is becoming unbearable. Despite this, she is adamant about avoiding any hospital treatment, even though that's where she would receive the most effective pain management. I’ve attempted multiple times to get her medical attention, calling both hospitals and emergency services. However, due to her refusal for assistance, they have also turned us down. It was explained to me that taking her against her will could be considered kidnapping. After consulting with various healthcare professionals, I have been informed that her time may be measured in days or weeks. There’s also a chance that she could slip into unconsciousness, leaving me deeply unsettled. I am already in a state of mourning, yet I am desperate to understand what to expect in the coming days. It is crucial for me to prepare myself—emotionally and mentally—so that I can help ensure her comfort in these final moments. Plans are underway to engage hospice care, but the uncertainty fills me with apprehension. This is my mother, and I want to alleviate my fear so I can provide her with the support she needs as she nears the end of her journey. I yearn to be present for her without being entirely consumed by grief before she passes away. Any guidance or insight you could provide would be invaluable. I'm at a loss for what steps to take next and truly desire to navigate this situation with as much grace and readiness as possible.
Prolonged Miscarriage: Over Four Weeks In
A 35-year-old woman managing Type 1 diabetes with an insulin pump has been experiencing a challenging period marked by a recent miscarriage. This occurred just shy of ten weeks into the pregnancy, following an extremely positive pregnancy test, although medical confirmation had not yet been obtained. The physical symptoms were quite severe, with substantial bleeding that included large tissue clumps and blood clots observed during a shower. The size of these clots was rather alarming, comparable to a fist, causing blockage in the drain. Initially, for the first three to four days, there was heavy bleeding, requiring three pads daily. After that, the situation gradually improved, and around a week ago, she reached a point where only a pantyliner might suffice. Despite the reduction, bleeding persisted intermittently, mainly noticeable upon wiping, with instances of no blood at all, leading to inconsistencies in her experience. Recently, she has been feeling bloated and has noticed a resurgence in bleeding, necessitating the use of pads twice daily. Additionally, she has been experiencing light cramps and has developed acne. A subsequent pregnancy test revealed continued positive results. Now, with over four weeks of bleeding, she reached out to her physician’s office. However, the response was not one of concern, suggesting that she could schedule a visit at her convenience if she felt the need. The cost of visiting a doctor or urgent care deters her from seeking immediate professional help unless absolutely warranted. Overall, she reports feeling generally well, but is seeking advice from others. Is there cause for alarm, or is it feasible to let things unfold naturally? Could this miscarriage have evolved into her menstrual cycle instead? Additionally, it's worth noting that she occasionally finds small blood clots on the toilet paper after wiping. Since the onset of this situation, she has abstained from sexual intercourse.
Exploring Inositol and CoQ10 for Managing PCOS Symptoms
As a 28-year-old female, I have faced the challenges of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) since my teenage years. Starting from the age of 16, I have dealt with highly irregular menstrual cycles, occurring anywhere from three to eight months apart. My diagnosis has been substantiated through two ultrasounds and blood tests revealing elevated androgen levels. Despite maintaining a healthy diet and leading an active lifestyle—balancing my work as an environmental biologist with gym sessions alongside my husband—I continue to wrestle with weight management. Other symptoms impacting my daily life include significant hair loss, unwanted facial hair, and persistent fatigue. In my journey to manage PCOS, I previously sought counsel from a gynaecologist, who primarily suggested hormonal birth control as the main approach to alleviate my symptoms. Although I adhered to this recommendation for several years, the hormonal changes negatively impacted my mood, leading me to discontinue its use. Another alternative proposed by my gynaecologist involved androgen blockers, but these are not suitable for me since my husband and I plan to start a family in the next two to three years. Recently, my research led me to discover that supplements like Inositol and CoQ10 might effectively combat insulin resistance and lower androgen levels. They are purported to improve various symptoms associated with PCOS, including the regulation of ovulation, all while boasting minimal adverse effects. I am curious about the viability of these supplements as alternatives to hormonal birth control or androgen blockers in managing my PCOS symptoms.