Ever heard of AST and ALT? These are enzymes, Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT) and Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST), primarily found in your liver. When liver cells are damaged, they release these enzymes into the bloodstream, causing elevated AST and ALT levels.
Think of it like this: your liver is a diligent worker. When it's struggling – maybe due to a virus, medication, or even excessive alcohol – it sends out an SOS in the form of these enzymes showing up in your blood test.
High AST and ALT levels don't always mean serious trouble. Sometimes, it's just a temporary blip. However, consistently elevated levels warrant further investigation. Your doctor might recommend additional tests to pinpoint the underlying cause, which could range from mild inflammation to more significant liver conditions.
So, next time you see 'AST' and 'ALT' on your lab report, remember they're important indicators of your liver's health and worth discussing with your healthcare provider.
