Understand Liver Health and Early Detection With the Liver Function Blood Test
The liver is one of the body’s most vital organs, performing over 500 essential functions that keep us healthy. From detoxifying the blood and aiding digestion to storing essential vitamins and minerals, the liver is responsible for ensuring the smooth functioning of many bodily processes. Despite its importance, many people don’t realise they have liver issues until significant damage has already occurred.
By monitoring key markers in your blood, a liver function test can detect potential problems before they worsen, allowing you to make necessary lifestyle changes or seek medical treatment to protect your liver health. With One Day Tests, you can conveniently monitor your liver function, ensuring you stay on top of your health before complications arise.
What Are the Signs of Problems with the Liver?
The liver is a resilient organ, often continuing to function even when it's under strain. However, when liver problems develop, the signs can be subtle and easy to overlook. Liver disease often progresses slowly, and by the time symptoms become noticeable, significant damage may have already occurred. Here are some key signs to watch out for:
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Fatigue: One of the most common symptoms of liver issues is ongoing fatigue. If you're feeling tired all the time, even with plenty of rest, it could be a sign that your liver isn’t functioning properly.
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Jaundice: Jaundice is characterised by a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. This occurs when there’s a build-up of bilirubin, a substance produced by the liver. Jaundice is a clear indication of liver dysfunction.
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Dark Urine and Pale Stools: Changes in the colour of your urine and stools can signal a problem with bile production or flow. Dark urine and pale or clay-coloured stools are often signs that the liver is struggling to process and excrete waste effectively.
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Abdominal Pain or Swelling: Discomfort or swelling in the upper right abdomen, where the liver is located, could indicate liver inflammation or enlargement. This pain may feel like a dull ache or pressure and is a common symptom of liver disease.
- Unexplained Weight Loss or Loss of Appetite: If you’ve experienced a loss of appetite or have lost weight without trying, it could be a sign of liver issues. The liver plays a key role in metabolising nutrients, and dysfunction can affect digestion and energy levels.
While these signs can indicate liver problems, it’s important to note that many people with liver disease experience no symptoms in the early stages.
What Does a Liver Function Test Detect?
A liver function test is an important tool for assessing the overall health of your liver. It works by measuring levels of specific enzymes and proteins in your blood, which reflect how well your liver is functioning. Abnormal levels of these markers can indicate liver damage, inflammation, or bile flow problems, helping identify issues early on.
Here are the key markers that a liver function test detects:
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ALT (alanine aminotransferase): ALT is an enzyme primarily found in the liver. Elevated levels of ALT in your blood suggest that your liver may be damaged or inflamed, as ALT is released when liver cells are injured.
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AST (aspartate aminotransferase): AST is another enzyme that, like ALT, helps detect liver inflammation or damage. High AST levels can indicate liver disease or injury, though AST is also found in other organs, such as the heart and muscles.
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ALP (alkaline phosphatase): ALP is an enzyme related to the bile ducts. Elevated levels of ALP can signal blockages in the bile ducts, gallbladder issues, or liver disease.
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Bilirubin: Bilirubin is a waste product produced by the liver. High levels of bilirubin in the blood indicate a problem with bile flow or liver function, often leading to jaundice.
- Albumin and Total Protein: Albumin is a protein produced by the liver. Low levels of albumin or total protein may indicate that the liver isn’t functioning properly or that there is chronic liver disease.
How Can I Improve My Liver Function?
Taking care of your liver is essential to maintaining overall health and preventing long-term damage. Here are some practical ways to support and protect your liver:
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Reduce Alcohol Intake: Heavy alcohol consumption is one of the leading causes of liver damage. Reducing or eliminating alcohol from your diet can help the liver heal and function more effectively.
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Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese is closely linked to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition that can progress to liver damage.
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Eat a Balanced Diet: Focus on eating foods that are high in fibre, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins support liver function by providing essential nutrients.
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Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also improves blood circulation and reduces fat build-up in the liver.
- Avoid Unnecessary Medications and Toxins: Many medications, including over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol, can stress the liver when taken frequently or in high doses.
Our Liver Function Blood Test
Take Control of Your Liver Health Today
Recognising the subtle signs and monitoring your liver function regularly is key to preventing serious complications down the road. Early detection through a liver function test allows you to take proactive steps toward improving your liver health before issues worsen. Whether you're concerned about symptoms or simply want to ensure your liver is functioning optimally, regular testing is essential.
With our Liver Function Blood Test, you can monitor your liver health from the comfort of your home. This convenient, reliable, and fast test gives you clear insights into your liver function, allowing you to protect your health without the hassle of GP appointments.
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