What does an elevated alanine transaminase (ALT) level indicate?
Generally, ALT refers to alanine aminotransferase. Elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase indicate damage to liver cells and suggest possible inflammation in the liver. A detailed explanation is as follows:
Alanine aminotransferase is an important indicator in liver function tests. When liver cells are damaged, alanine aminotransferase is released from the liver cells into the bloodstream, causing its concentration in the blood to rise. This situation may be caused by various factors such as viral hepatitis, fatty liver, cirrhosis, alcoholic liver disease, and drug-induced liver injury. Additionally, physiological factors such as strenuous exercise, alcohol consumption, and staying up late may also lead to temporary increases in alanine aminotransferase levels.
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important. Avoid excessive fatigue, ensure adequate sleep, and reduce the frequency of staying up late and alcohol consumption to decrease the burden on the liver. At the same time, eating more fresh vegetables and fruits while reducing the intake of greasy, high-calorie, and high-fat foods can help maintain normal liver function.