Can virosis elevate ALT AST?

[Monicka]

Hi, I’m a member here since 2020 when my AST,ALT levels were slightly elevated for the first time in my life after contracting covid. They were about 0,65-0,8 and limit in our country was upto 0,55. After 2 years of strict diet and no alcohol they got slowly down. In December 2022 my liver levels were within the normal range again, even though very close to the upper limits (0,54).

I haven’t had a blood check since Dec 2022 until now but I still ate properly and drank no alcohol. In August 2024 I got a virosis and my doctor performed a blood check. And I was shocked. Both enzymes were elevated and a lot! ALT got up to 1,65 (limit 0,78) and AST to 0,93 (limit 0,72). I’m dejected and depressed! I haven’t expected any worsening let alone this bad😢My doctor said that it’s ok, that I don’t need to worry and that no further actions are needed, but I worry! I’m wondering whether the virosis could have caused this elevation? Should I have the blood check again? And how soon?

The virosis could have been encephalitis (serious disease from ticks) but I’m still waiting for blood tests results which should come back on Friday.

[nash2 Partner]

Hi Monicka, yes, a viral infection can drive those blood tests up a lot. Virosis means that you have some virus at work and could certainly be from a tick bite. If the virus isn't one that directly attacks the liver, such as Hep C, your baseline values should come back as your body deals with the infection.

[Monicka in reply to nash2]

Thank you for the answer. It’s very supportive. Encephalitis hasn’t been confirmed, the antibodies came back negative. I had a sono yesterday and the doctor told me that everything is ok. I decided to do the following:

1. Have a blood test for ALT, AST in one month (in September).

2. Get a fibroscan. I had two fibroscans in 2021 and both were ok. So I will see whether there are any changes.

My GP told me that I don’t qualify for any further tests so I’ll do this on my own.

I will let you know the results. Thanks again for your support! I’m so happy to be part of this community. I don’t know where you are based, I’m from Czech, Europe and it’s great to be connected with so many people with the same issues throughout the world!

[PickleA]

I would get my levels checked again in six months. I would increase your healthy eating! Lemon water is good for the liver, too!