Discussion on Abnormal Liver Test Results
I recently visited the doctor believing I had food poisoning; however, it turns out I may just have been affected by a viral case of diarrhea that’s been circulating. Considering I had been experiencing diarrhea since Saturday morning, the physician wanted to rule out any issues with my kidneys, and I was treated with lactated Ringer’s solution. Although I was discharged, I checked my test results via my health app and found some of them rather alarming. I’m a 27-year-old female in good health aside from asthma, for which I occasionally take Tylenol to alleviate cramping pain. My bilirubin level registered at 1.2, which seems acceptable, but my alkaline phosphatase was elevated at 165. Additionally, my AST and ALT levels were 79 and 207, respectively. The ALT figure particularly seemed significantly higher than normal.
Answers (1)
2/10/2026, 5:20:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about your abnormal liver test results, especially after experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms. Let's break down your liver test results and outline some steps to take moving forward.
Summary of Your Results:
- Bilirubin: 1.2 (normal range)
- Alkaline Phosphatase: 165 (elevated)
- AST: 79 (elevated)
- ALT: 207 (significantly elevated)
Explanation:
- Bilirubin: Your level is within the normal range, indicating that your liver is functioning well in processing bilirubin.
- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP): Slightly elevated levels may suggest potential issues with the liver or bile ducts but can also be influenced by other factors (like bone health).
- AST and ALT: Elevated levels, particularly ALT, are often associated with liver inflammation or damage. Various factors can contribute, including viral infections, alcohol consumption, certain medications, or even stress on the liver from your recent illness.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on how you’re feeling. Watch for any new symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin/eyes), dark urine, extreme fatigue, or unusual abdominal pain.
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Avoid Alcohol and Toxins: Abstain from alcohol and limit exposure to other liver toxins like certain medications (excluding those prescribed by your doctor). This will help minimize strain on your liver while it's recovering.
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Hydrate and Eat Well: Continue to stay hydrated, especially after your bout of diarrhea. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins to support liver health.
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Follow-Up Testing: While your doctor may have a follow-up plan, if you haven’t discussed it yet, consider requesting repeat tests in a few weeks to monitor if your liver enzyme levels decrease or remain elevated.
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Document Everything: Keep a journal of your symptoms, dietary habits, and any medication taken. This will help you track any patterns and provide useful information in future consultations.
If any of your symptoms worsen or if you develop new concerning signs, you should follow up with your healthcare provider promptly. Remember, your health is paramount, and it’s okay to seek clarification from your doctor about your test results and what they mean for your overall health. If you have further questions or need support, I'm here to help.
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