What causes elevated alpha-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase?

Under normal circumstances, elevated alpha-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (α-HBDH) levels may be caused by conditions such as hunger or fasting, anemia, alcohol intoxication, viral myocarditis, or chronic hepatitis. If you experience any discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Hunger or Fasting State

During prolonged fasting or extremely low-calorie diets, the body shifts from carbohydrate metabolism to fatty acid oxidation due to lack of glucose, which may lead to increased α-HBDH levels. This is often accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations and hand tremors. It is recommended to gradually resume normal eating to ensure adequate caloric and nutrient intake.

2. Anemia

Long-term malnutrition may lead to anemia. In anemic states, the body accelerates blood circulation and metabolic rate to maintain blood supply to vital organs, potentially increasing α-HBDH production and resulting in elevated levels. Common symptoms include dizziness and fatigue. It is recommended to follow a physician's advice in using medications such as ferrous sulfate tablets, ferrous lactate tablets, or polysaccharide-iron complex capsules for treatment.

3. Alcohol Intoxication

Excessive alcohol consumption may lead to alcohol intoxication. During alcohol metabolism in the body, α-HBDH may be produced, leading to elevated levels. Symptoms may include slurred speech and unsteady gait. It is recommended to follow medical guidance in using liver-protective medications such as Ligan tablets, Yigan Fuzheng capsules, or Shugan pills for treatment.

4. Viral Myocarditis

Viral myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle caused by viral infection. When viruses directly invade cardiomyocytes, they may cause cell damage or necrosis, leading to the release of large amounts of myocardial enzymes—including α-HBDH—into the bloodstream, thus elevating its levels. Common symptoms include palpitations and chest tightness. It is recommended to follow a doctor’s instructions when using antiviral medications such as oseltamivir phosphate capsules, antiviral oral solution, or acyclovir tablets for treatment.

5. Chronic Hepatitis

Prolonged unhealthy lifestyle habits may lead to chronic hepatitis. Inflammation can cause rupture of hepatocyte membranes, resulting in the release of intracellular enzymes—including α-HBDH—into the bloodstream, thereby increasing its levels. Symptoms may include jaundice and fatigue. It is advisable to use medications such as amoxicillin capsules, cefixime dispersible tablets, or compound glycyrrhizin tablets under a doctor's supervision.

In daily life, appropriate physical exercise can be incorporated to enhance physical strength and boost immune function.