When to have a Liver Function Blood Test
When you think of your liver you’ll probably associate it as the organ that breaks down alcohol and its toxins, but its job is multifunctional. Your liver also processes nutrients, regulates hormones and helps to keep your body in balance. Because it works so efficiently behind the scenes, liver problems can often go unnoticed… until they become something more serious.
This blood test helps to show how well your liver is working. It measures key enzymes and proteins related to your liver’s performance and can detect signs of inflammation, cell damage, bile duct issues, viral infections, alcohol related stress and underlying liver disease.
When should you consider a Liver Function Blood Test
There are lots of reasons that you might decide to have a liver function blood test. Here are some of the common ones:
We all know that excessive alcohol consumption can damage your liver, so if you’re a big drinker, or have been in the past you may decide to have a liver function test to check if you have any early signs of alcohol-related liver stress.
Some pain relief medication and anti-inflammatory drugs may affect your liver. If you’re taking medication regularly that affect your liver you may need to have regular liver function checks to monitor your liver’s response to the medication.
If you’re experiencing low energy, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), abdominal pain, dark urine, loss of appetite, nausea or itchy skin, these symptoms could be a sign that you have an issue with your liver and it’s a good idea to get checked.
Why early detection matters
Many liver conditions develop slowly and silently, so it’s important to detect any issues early. In most cases, symptoms don’t usually develop until the damage is advanced and early detection means earlier treatment.
Whether you’re managing an existing condition, monitoring medication or taking proactive healthcare steps, a Liver Function Blood Test is a smart step towards better overall heath.