OpenHealth Q&A

Elevated ALP Levels: A Long-Term Concern

Hello everyone. I'm a 23-year-old assigned female at birth, weighing 195 pounds and standing 5 feet 2 inches tall. Lately, I've been grappling with various health problems. I stumbled upon lab results from two years ago that included full metabolic panels taken six months apart. Surprisingly, my primary care physician overlooked the significantly high ALP levels, which were recorded repeatedly at over 155. It's important to note that my weight back then was lower, and I had gained weight due to a misdiagnosis of bipolar disorder by an unreliable psychiatrist, for which I was prescribed Seroquel for two years. Currently, I'm not on any medications except for an albuterol inhaler for my asthma, so I doubt my ALP issues stem solely from my weight, despite my parents' insistence. Most recently, I underwent testing because of irregular menstruation and adverse effects from my birth control shot, which caused prolonged menstrual bleeding for nearly two months. Multiple tests indicated I am quite anemic, along with low levels of SHBG, while other hormone levels appeared normal. Furthermore, I have deficiencies in vitamin B12 and D, which I will delve into regarding my dietary habits shortly. But again, the ALP level caught my eye – it was recorded at 146. In the last month, I've had to visit the emergency room three times due to severe vomiting, stomach cramps, and constipation. Initially, I suspected a return of my ulcers, which led an assistant at my primary's office to prescribe me Omeprazole 40mg. However, after my trips to the ER, I discontinued it. On the first two visits, I was given Ondansetron 8mg at two different hospitals. When that didn't help, another ER switched my medication to Metoclopramide 40mg. A week later, during a gastroenterology appointment, the doctor stopped the Metoclopramide and reinstated Omeprazole 40mg, while also introducing a propylene glycol drink mix to assist with digestion. Thankfully, following a diet of straightforward meals—comprising proteins, carbs, and cooked vegetables—I've stopped vomiting. I'm convinced that my low iron, vitamin B12, and vitamin D deficiencies are consequences of my recent eating habits, which have been further complicated by heavy menstrual bleeding. Yet, what troubles me the most is the elevated ALP level. I've been experiencing persistent fatigue and excessive hunger for a few months now, dating back to before the vomiting and bleeding began. It feels like something inside me is depriving me of nutrients, leaving me constantly unsatisfied. Despite my efforts to maintain a positive outlook, the situation is frightening, especially since no one has addressed the high ALP levels with me until now. It was the gynecologist’s assistant who mentioned that elevated ALP could be linked to menstrual irregularities. I thought it wise to reach out to this community rather than spiral into despair from googling my symptoms. I would prefer to hear directly from individuals who can either provide reassurance that I will overcome this challenging period or offer insights if this could indicate a more serious health concern.

Answers (1)

2/11/2026, 1:01:08 AM

OpenHealth AI

It's understandable to feel concerned about elevated alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels, especially given your complex health history and current symptoms. Elevated ALP can arise from various factors, but it's important to keep perspective and focus on manageable next steps.

What's Going On with Your ALP Levels

1. Understanding ALP: Alkaline phosphatase is an enzyme present in various tissues, primarily in the liver, bones, kidneys, and bile ducts. Elevated levels can indicate issues in these areas but could also relate to conditions like biliary obstruction, bone disease, or even pregnancy and growth spurts.

2. Your Context: Given your history of gastrointestinal issues, anemia, and vitamin deficiencies, these can be intertwined with your ALP levels. For instance:

   • Liver or bile duct issues: Could cause elevated ALP.
   • Bone turnover: Conditions affecting bone metabolism can also lead to higher ALP levels.
   • Nutritional deficiencies: Low vitamin D, especially, can impact overall bone health.

Next Steps to Consider

1. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a diary of your symptoms, including any changes in pain, fatigue, or appetite. Note patterns to see what might trigger any discomfort or symptoms.

2. Nutritional Improvement: Given your deficiencies:

   • Increase iron intake: Incorporate lean meats, leafy greens, legumes, and consider iron-rich snacks.
   • Boost Vitamin B12 and D: Consider fortified foods (like dairy, cereals) or supplements. Vitamin D can be sourced from sunlight exposure or supplements.

3. Hydration and Diet Adjustments: Since you've had issues with vomiting, staying hydrated is crucial. Stick with simple, balanced meals that are easy to digest as you've begun to do. Gradually reintroduce foods that are rich in nutrients but low in irritants.

4. Follow Up on Test Results: Request clarification from your healthcare provider about your ALP levels and the implications. If this has not been discussed thoroughly, advocating for a comprehensive assessment of your liver, bone, and gastrointestinal health could provide clarity.

5. Manage Stress and Mental Health: Chronic health issues can be taxing emotionally. Consider supportive avenues, such as talking to a professional or joining support groups, to navigate these feelings effectively.

Maintaining a proactive approach can help ease your worries. You're clearly doing a lot to assess and manage your health, which is commendable. If symptoms continue to worsen or new ones appear, don't hesitate to seek more in-depth medical assessments. You're not alone in this journey; take one step at a time, and ensure you have a support system around you.