What does it mean when the liver function test shows elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT)?

Generally, liver function refers to liver function tests. Elevated levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) in liver function tests may be caused by strenuous exercise, unhealthy lifestyle habits, fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, drug-induced liver injury, and other factors. If concerned, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Strenuous Exercise

After strenuous exercise, due to increased metabolic activity in skeletal muscle cells, intracellular ALT may be released into the bloodstream, leading to elevated serum ALT levels. This is a temporary physiological phenomenon and usually returns to normal after a period of rest. It is recommended to warm up properly before exercising, avoid sudden high-intensity workouts, and plan exercise intensity and duration according to individual physical condition.

2. Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits

Poor lifestyle habits such as long-term sleep deprivation, excessive fatigue, and alcohol consumption may also cause elevated ALT levels. These habits can increase the burden on the liver and damage liver cells, resulting in the release of more ALT into the blood. It is recommended to maintain a regular sleep schedule, ensure sufficient sleep, avoid excessive fatigue and chronic sleep deprivation, and limit or avoid alcohol consumption to protect liver health.

3. Fatty Liver Disease

Obesity, diabetes, and other factors can cause excessive fat accumulation in the liver, leading to fatty liver disease. Fat accumulation can compress liver cells, impair their normal metabolism and function, and cause liver cell damage, resulting in elevated ALT levels in the blood. Patients may also experience symptoms such as fatigue and discomfort in the upper right abdomen. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as phospholipid choline capsules, silymarin capsules, and diammonium glycyrrhizinate enteric-coated capsules may be used for liver protection therapy.

4. Viral Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis is mainly caused by infection with hepatitis viruses, such as hepatitis B and C. The viruses damage liver cells, causing ALT to be released into the bloodstream. Symptoms may also include jaundice, nausea, and vomiting. Treatment should be guided by a doctor using medications such as entecavir dispersible tablets, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate tablets, or tenofovir alafenamide tablets.

5. Autoimmune Hepatitis

Autoimmune hepatitis is primarily the result of interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Viral infections and certain medications are common triggering factors. Immune dysfunction leads to the production of autoantibodies that attack liver cells, causing inflammation and damage, which results in elevated ALT levels. Common symptoms include fatigue, joint pain, and skin rashes. As directed by a physician, medications such as prednisolone tablets, azathioprine tablets, and bicyclol tablets may be used to reduce liver inflammation and regulate immune function.

In daily life, it is advisable to reduce intake of high-fat and high-calorie foods, consume more fresh vegetables and fruits, and maintain a balanced diet.