What does it mean when alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is high, and what should be done?
Dec 03, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Gao Jun
Introduction
In general, elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels may be caused by factors such as staying up late, fatigue, excessive alcohol consumption, viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or drug-induced liver injury. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, maintain regular作息 habits and avoid staying up late or drinking alcohol; eat a balanced diet and reduce intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods; consult a doctor before taking any medication.
Generally, elevated alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels may be caused by factors such as staying up late, overexertion, excessive alcohol consumption, viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease, or drug-induced liver injury. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Staying Up Late and Overexertion
Long-term sleep deprivation or excessive physical strain increases the metabolic burden on the liver, increases hepatocyte membrane permeability, and leads to enzyme leakage into the bloodstream. Maintaining regular作息 with 7–8 hours of sleep per night, avoiding heavy physical labor, and getting appropriate rest usually allow ALT levels to return to normal.
2. Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol is primarily metabolized in the liver, and its metabolite acetaldehyde damages liver cells, causing enzyme release. Immediate cessation of alcohol intake is essential. A light, easily digestible diet rich in vitamin-containing fruits and vegetables is recommended, and re-exposure to alcohol should be avoided.
3. Viral Hepatitis
Hepatitis B or C viruses invade liver cells, triggering inflammation and cell necrosis, resulting in significant enzyme release into the blood. Medications such as entecavir tablets, tenofovir alafenamide fumarate tablets, or lamivudine tablets may be used under medical guidance. Avoid physical exhaustion and maintain balanced nutrition.
4. Fatty Liver Disease
Accumulation of fat within liver cells impairs normal cellular function and causes inflammation, leading to elevated enzyme levels. Control high-fat diets and engage in regular exercise such as jogging. Under a doctor’s supervision, medications like silibinin capsules, polyene phosphatidylcholine capsules, or ursodeoxycholic acid capsules may be used.
5. Drug-Induced Liver Injury
Long-term use of antipyretic analgesics, antibiotics, or other medications can damage liver cells through their active components, leading to enzyme release. Discontinue the hepatotoxic drug immediately. Under medical guidance, medications such as reduced glutathione tablets, compound glycyrrhizin tablets, or tiopronin enteric-coated tablets may be used, and a healthcare provider should adjust the treatment plan accordingly.
In daily life, maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late or drinking alcohol; eat a balanced diet and reduce intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods; consult a doctor before taking any medication to avoid self-medication; and undergo regular liver function check-ups for early detection and intervention of liver problems.
