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Guide To The Causes Of High Liver Enzymes

Elevated liver enzymes may be discovered through routine blood tests. They can be an indication that the liver is inflamed or damaged. In most cases, elevations in liver enzymes are mild and temporary. Alanine transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase are some of the most commonly elevated enzymes. Liver enzymes are measured through blood tests. If an elevation is noted, patients may need additional blood tests. They may also need to attend frequent follow-up appointments. Doctors may need to perform imaging studies and other tests to investigate the patient's liver health more closely. 

Treatment for elevated liver enzymes varies depending on the cause. For instance, some pain medications may cause it, so patients should stop taking them where possible. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease treatment is vital when it is the cause. Some individuals may need heart surgery for heart failure. Another option for elevated liver enzyme treatment may be adjusting the patient's medication. Weight loss for liver health can help as well. However, as stated, patients must know the cause before they can receive the best treatment for elevated liver enzymes.

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Heart Failure 

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Heart failure occurs when an individual's heart cannot pump the amount of blood that their body needs. It is a chronic condition that gets worse over time, and patients require lifelong treatment. This condition can cause shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling of the feet and legs. Since it puts more stress on the liver, it can trigger elevated liver enzymes. Patients may have rapid weight gain from fluid retention, and they may notice a persistent cough. Men are at an increased risk of heart failure. Patients with diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, or coronary artery disease have a high risk of developing the condition as well. 

Doctors may order stress tests, chest x-rays, electrocardiograms, echocardiograms, and CT or MRI scans to diagnose heart failure. Blood tests may be used to check the patient's levels of NT-proBNP. Treatment for heart failure includes beta-blockers, diuretics, angiotensin II receptor blockers, and other medicines. Some individuals may need to have coronary bypass surgery or heart valve repair or replacement. Ventricular assist devices or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators may be considered. Patients with severe heart failure may need a heart transplant. 

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