ALT LEVELS

[guest5234]

Hi, I am a 65 year old retired firefighter enjoying retirement. Had a liver function test and the ALT was 118, they say have another test in a month, I do like a drink I am afraid. Is the numbers anything major to worry about.

[Divg]

I hate seeing posts go unanswered but I'm not a doctor. ALT (as I understand it) is an enzyme found in the liver, and when your liver is damaged more leaks out in to your blood. So having high levels is a sign that your liver is in trouble.

Normal levels are between 7-56 units per litre so 118 would be outside the normal range. If your doctor is happy to see you again for a retest in a month I think that indicates that this is probably something you need to look at addressing long term.

[guest5234 in reply to Divg]

Thanks, doctor said all the other liver tests were normal and there really is nothing to worry about and I have a very slim chance of anything serious, he actually said do not go on google as the majority is complete rubbish and always looks at worse case scenarios.

[Hidden]

Hi and welcome to the forum,

If your liver blood test have some elevated enzymes it is always advisable to re- test. If they remain out of the reference range then your GP could consider sending you for an ultrasound scan, this will give more information about your liver function.

In the meantime, you could address your alcohol consumption and stay within the recommended units of 14 a week with at least 2-3 consecutive days off alcohol.

You may find our publication 'Alcohol and Liver disease' useful to read, here is the link;

britishlivertrust.org.uk/wp...

Best wishes

Trust1