High Liver enzymes

My husband had a blood test done a few months ago....and had a liver enzyme that was high.  He had a second test a few weeks later...it was normal.  He had another this past week and the doctor called to tell him that he had several high enzymes and that he needs to schedule a test for a sonogram for his liver, pancreas, and gall bladder.

The first reaction was, oh no...he has hepatitis.  Though we don't know how he would have gotten it.  I was schedule for a yearly exam, so I asked to have blood work done...for peace of mine really, and all my tests were normal.  

Could he have hepatitis and not have given it to me?  Wouldn't I have tested positive too?

I realize it's probably early to be worrying and we'll find some answers out next week....but I just can't help the worrying!  

Any input would be very helpful.
Thank you!

[jmjm530]

Ask your doctor if your husband was tested for hepatitis A, B and C.

If not, insist he be tested now. Hepatitis C is not normally spread through personal or sexual contact. So no, you wouldn't necessarily have it even if your husband does.

But first things first, do the tests. The sonogram's a good idea too. And while they're at it, ask for an AFP (alpha-fetoprotein) blood test.

Chances are everything will be OK, but certain tests should be done.

-- Jim

[cuteus]

many things raise the levels, not just hepatitis. was he tested for hepatitis? Routine check ups do not include tests for hep, you have to request them. If someone had blood products prior to 1991, used Iv drugs, had medical procedures, piercings, tattoos, maybe even manicures or shaves at a barber shop, anything that could have exposed them to blood, should be tested for hep b and c.

[NYgirl]

If someone had blood products prior to 1991, used Iv drugs, had medical procedures, piercings, tattoos, maybe even manicures or shaves at a barber shop, anything that could have exposed them to blood, should be tested for hep b and c.


........that sounds like just about anybody doesn't it?  It's a scary world that we live in....................

If you have insurance it sure can't hurt to have the tests just in case. I had a "just in case" test recently (as my xhusband was diagnosed with HCV years ago - even though we have been apart ten years and you DONT usually get it through personal ways) and mine came up positive.  But I had other ways that I could have received it myself.  

If I hadn't wanted to be "sure" I never would have known and would have died with it by the time it was discovered.

Better safe than sorry.

[athelp]

They didn't actually test him for hep but they ask him all the questions....have you done this...did you do this...

Wouldn't that be something they'd go ahead and test for since he's had the higher enzyme level before?

[jmjm530]

Unfortunately, your average doctor is not well-versed in hepatitis. Of course, if you went to a liver specialist, they would have done those tests.

Just ask to be tested for hepatitis a, b and c. If your doctor won't, see a liver specialist. Just remember, it's not your doctor's liver we're talking about, it's your husbands.

-- Jim

[avidreader]

A sort of related question. I'm 7 weeks into combi treatment (I started off with a month of Inteferon and Procrit) and my AST/SGOT and my ALT levels continue to be high. They are higher then when I started treatment and higher then they were 4 weeks after the initial Inteferon/Procrit boost. Should I be worried? My doc (well the NP) says it could just be from the meds but says she wants to monitor closely. The good news is that my HGB levels are great and holding--they are higher then pre-treatment! Any insight appreciated.

[1fairygirl]

I'm wondering if your doctor did a blood sugar test on your husband.  If so and it was high, high liver enzymes can also be caused by type 2 diabetes.  Good luck to you both!
Smiles, Sue

[1fairygirl]

It's my understanding that levels can often change during treatment and is no cause for concern.  Best of luck!
Smiles, Sue

[avidreader]

Thanks Sue. I know it's been addressed in other threads but sometimes I just don't have the energy to start wading through them looking for specific info.

Tracy

[athelp]

I don't know if he did a blood sugar test or not....I need to ask him.  I didn't know that would cause high enzyme levels.  

I'm afraid I'm not very knowledgable about diabetes....need to do some research.  But I do know that his grandmother was a diabetic.  

He's had some allergy problems as of late...but I've noticed he's always tired now...not much energy.

[bouchie]

there are numerous things that can cause an increase in liver enzymes including bowel obstruction, different vitamins/herbs, alcohol,HIV,heart problems(CHF),was he exposed to any kind of pesticide or poisonous gas(ie. at work) too much tylenol and even diabetes. The biggest question is.... How does he feel?  Is he feeling ill in anyway?  My sister just got out of the hospital(5 days in) and her liver enzymes were 10x the norm and they didn't treat her for anything but dehydration because they are still unsure of why!  So there are many different reasons and most are not injurous to the body! Don't panic! :)

[athelp]

We got a call from the doctor's office....his hepatitus (hepatitis) tests all came back negative.  So it's something else that's making his enzymes high.

I had no idea that there were so many things that could make them elevated.  They asked so many of the hepatitus (hepatitis) questions....they gave the impression that was the cause of his test results.

Thank you all for you input, you've all helped me greatly!!

[junuevo]

Hi everyone.

My husband and I just came from the doctor office, and she told us that his liver enzymes are high. But the good news is that his blood sugar is ok and he does not have hepatitis A, B, and C.

Today he repeat the blood work to make sure the results and in the end of the week he will do an ultrasound of his liver.

What do you guys think about his situation? What could be it? Heart problem??

By the way, he is overweight right now!

Thanks!
Juliana.

[junuevo]

Hi everyone.

My husband and I just came from the doctor office, and she told us that his liver enzymes are high. But the good news is that his blood sugar is ok and he does not have hepatitis A, B, and C.

Today he repeat the blood work to make sure the results and in the end of the week he will do an ultrasound of his liver.

What do you guys think about his situation? What could be it? Heart problem??

By the way, he is overweight right now!

Thanks!
Juliana.

[Dweav]

I have had Hep-C for over 30year had a transplant and am now on PEG and have been with my wife for 27 years and she has been tested once a year ever since we found out I had it and she hasn

[Mustlovedogs99]

I recently gave blood and i got a letter stating I tested positive for HCV.  The blood center advised that I be re-tested which I have, as their tests are highly sensitive and pick up "normal" viruses.  I was tested at my again yesterday but have to wait 3-5 days for the results.

Has anyone ever heard of this?  Please let me know!

Thanks

Rachel

[Mustlovedogs99]

Hello!!

I have recently given blood at a company blood drive and I received the results stating I tested positive for HCV.  I spoke with someone at the blood center and they stated that their tests are highly sensitive and if I am re-tested my results maybe negitive.  They said that a virus that is normal, flu, etc may show up.  I got re-tested yesterday but wont get results until 3-5 days.

Does anyone know if this is true or not?  

Please let me know!

Thanks
Rachel

[scruffy]

Many times people get false positives and also a positive in the screening tests may also mean you were once infected and your body fought it off so it is no longer active hcv.If the second test comes back positive they will probably recommend further testing. Please post your questions up top in the more recent posts and you will get more responses and helpful info. Good Luck to you, Frank

[foreverfriends1]

In June of this year, I was told Liver Enzyme Test, showed Elevated GammaGT with another problem. Doc said it was not bone and had I been drinking. I repeated that I do NOT drink and had not took a sip since 1982. I also stopped the Pain Meds - Paracetamol over here - something else, in the USA - in early june too. My GP has had ultrasound of Liver, Gallbladder and spleen etc. and all looked normal. Last month the GammaGT was static - then it went down and now it is raised again. I am waiting to see a Rheumatologist to rule out LupusSLE & always ill and tired. I now also, have to see a Liver Specialist and am so scaaaared. I was on paracetamol 8 a day, for 10 years for pain relief. I am scared if the specialist want to take a Biopsy, am living of those power Aid Drinks and have little support. Please, can anybody advise me? I feel I have left this liver problem for too long - but surely after giving up medication and taking codeien 30mg it ahould have gone back to normal. Plese advise if you can foreverfriends1 (((thanks)))

[foreverfriends1]

Its me again "foreverfriends1" and would you believe it - still no rheumatologist and still no liver specialist. Had another liver function test and again GammaGT is 138 "Higher than b4" I am worried sick....my doctor does not know, what is wrong and after all of this time, is referring me to a liver specialist as it is "my liver". (thanx to whoever said it on here) ALL scans showed liver, gallbladder and spleen to be fine. I am not so sure as abdomen is starting to swell and sometimes ankles swell as well.Antinuclear is positive and different blood tests point to problems with the liver. I am so scared. I am thankful to the person who emailed me and said "Paracetamol" would have left the liver 3 months after taking the last one. I am in pain - taking few meds and worried any advice would again be appreciated at ***@**** as I can hardly find my way back here. please mention "Liver" in subject - so mail does not accidently go into my junk mail. Special thoughts to all who are suffering at this time love foreverfriends1

[foreverfriends1]

Its me again "foreverfriends1" and would you believe it - still no rheumatologist and still no liver specialist. Had another liver function test and again GammaGT is 138 "Higher than b4" I am worried sick....my doctor does not know, what is wrong and after all of this time, is referring me to a liver specialist as it is "my liver". (thanx to whoever said it on here) ALL scans showed liver, gallbladder and spleen to be fine. I am not so sure as abdomen is starting to swell and sometimes ankles swell as well.Antinuclear is positive and different blood tests point to problems with the liver. I am so scared. I am thankful to the person who emailed me and said "Paracetamol" would have left the liver 3 months after taking the last one. I am in pain - taking few meds and worried any advice would again be appreciated at ***@**** as I can hardly find my way back here. please mention "Liver" in subject - so mail does not accidently go into my junk mail. Special thoughts to all who are suffering at this time love foreverfriends1

[cuteus]

I see you still like to lurk in the bottom threads!  It is going to have to be the specialists who can shed some light on your symptoms. They have to tests for the things they feel might be causing the symptoms. If you need a biopsy, you need one. Ultrasounds are not a good diagnostic tool for diagnosing liver problems. The biopsy is no big deal if it is done by an experienced radiologist using ultrasound guided needle biopsy. I had no problems and just some pain when the area was touched. Most folks have no complications. Don't be afraid. you should be more afraid of not knowing, of not having real answers to youir symptoms.

bookmark this page and you would have no problems coming back. \\\and post in the upper threads!!! hardly anyone comes back down here.
good luck

[foreverfriends1]

(( Cuteous ))

Thankyou:) I have tried to get in on the higher threads and they wont let me.

Elevated GammaGT and now elevate ALT ( I think the GP said that) will be looked at by a liver specialist. I have already waited a few months to see one on the NHS.

GP said scans looked ok - so NOT to worry. I see too many people on this website who are very sick. I also want to thank you for explaining the procedure regarding the liver biopsy - you have eased my mind.

It is so nice to know - there are people like you who will answer mail - when another person is struggling. God Bless donna - foreverfriends-1

[scruffy]

It is ok to post your stuff in an already existing thread at the top. People understand that the new threads are limited.Frank

[cuteus]

thanks scruff!
yes, you can click on any of the top threads and add your questions to them by clicking on the post comment. don't forget to bookmark or add to favorites.

[foreverfriends1]

(((Hugs)) to scruff and cuteous. With liver enzymes raising I needed that information. Thanx.

[cuteus]

I'm glad you made it up there, I saw your post. Try it again, since it was not clear to some whether you have hep c or not.
stay around for comfort

[foreverfriends1]

Something tells me, even tho GammaGT is static at 138 I might have Hepatitus (hepatitis). With both blood transfusions in 1983 and 1987 who knows, it could be Hep C.  I am not as worried - there are some good people here, like you and Scruffy. I will be asking the new specialists to run all of the tests.  Once again Thanx and ((HUGS))

[DooDee]

I would like to ask you a question if you don't mind.  I am new to this forum, but I am very upset and confused over recent blood work which has shown elevated liver enzymes.  Alkaline Phosphate has been gradually increasing over past three months.  It is currently at 56.  It was discovered during pre-op blood work for total hysterectomy.
I now have been referral by my GYN to a Gastro/Hepatologist for consultation.....which he says is "because he doesn't like surprises when he operates".  The specialist office called to reschedule the appt. and I asked why I was seeing the Dr., she said "no physical or anything, just to go over my labs and radiology reports, and discuss my options".  Well, now I'm worried.  What options.  I asked for the radiology reports from the US of pancrease, gallbladder, liver, and abdomen.  Also, CT of pelvis and abdomen.  Impression was normal. No acute abnormalities.  I have post menopausal bleeding (I am 53).
I have endometriosis, ovarian fluid filled cyst that's been their for over 4 years, pelvic pain, and LBP, hypothyroidism, MCTD,RLS, osteoarthritis, S/P RA 131 for Graves Disease, Hashimotoes thyroiditis, thyroidtoxicosis, and my thyroid still goes from hypo to hyper....my BETA FSH comes back that I'm in menopause one month, then the next month that I'm not, then I am, then I'm not, you get the picture.  What do you think is wrong?  My husband is a Vietnam Veteram.  Thirty seven years ago while in Vietnam, he was flown to Saigon terribly ill with what they thought was Cholera.  Five years ago they did a hepatitis panel on him and found he had A & B at some time in his life, but it was not active.  He was negative for C.
I've been ill ever since I had the radioactive iodine.  My health is declining.  I walk with assisted devices, shower with assistance, have been dx. by neurologist w/chronic pain syndrome and take morphine several times a day, along with seven other medications.  I am bloated, carry an additonal 35lbs on my small frame, my bones are deteriorating, due to osteoarthritis, and prio to 2000, I was in excellant health.
I would love to hear some input from any of you on this forum.
Thank you.

[cuteus]

wow! you surely have been put to a heavy test in your endurance department. That is a lot  of conditions to have for such a relatively young person. have you seen an autoimmune disease specialist? a rheumatologist? Have YOU been tested for hep c?
Please let us know what you have been tested for, and see if anybody's lightbulb goes off for you.
Also, there are not many bottom feeders in MH and if you want more input, it is best to cut and paste this post of yours all the way in another upper thread.  If you don't get to do it in a day or two, perhaps one of us feeders can reposted for you in a more recent thread. Is that ok with you?

[pjbrad]

My husband recently went for a physical and all the results were normal except his liver count.  His AST was 154 and ALT was 388.  He is about 30 pounds overweight.  He is not showing any symptoms of liver problems.  He does not drink and he tested negative for hepatitis.  We found out he has a great aunt and 3 second cousins who died of non alcoholic related liver problems.  The family practice doctor wants to retest him in a month.  Should I be concerned enough to push to move the retesting up?  How high are these numbers?  I would appreciate any advice?

[cquest]

That thread got messed up and closed so I'll talk down here. I wasn't saying I thought 'she' was being childish, but the author of the post that I quoted (and I'm sure you'll figure out who I mean if you go back and read it).

Sometimes I feel like this forum is similar to the old series 'Our Gang', remember that show and the obnoxious kid Alphalfa? Always thinking he is so smart and he can sing but he really can't? And that bossy little fat kid Spanky that had everyone doing his bidding...Remember how they had their little club house and 'keep out' sign and so forth? Well, that's how I feel this forum is...There are a few club members that want to hole up in their little fort and ban everyone else from entering that isn't part of their gang...put on little shows and run and hide when they get into trouble...the board hits them in the a** as they duck thru the fence running back to their club house...and then talk their way out of it and come back next week to do it all over again...

I just hate that cr*p! I know a lot was said back and forth and 'she' was feeling very singled out and was just fighting back...I know her and she isn't crazy or paranoid at all. I really like her and would probably like most of you all if I knew you better but with this small bit of information here in this forum, it's hard to know what is what sometimes. Email me at home if you want...my email is in an archived thread...look for the long heading...I don't want to start any more trouble, I just wanted you to know how I felt.
Cin

[cuteus]

I am not sure why you feel the need to side with vegg all the time and why you take offense and take it personal when I made my statement of the no clue people. I can't figure out why you feel it addresses anyone else but the poster who felt we were making fun of her. That shows that this person has no clue as to what is going on and is trying to stir up things. Why did you not find her regular statements as to the old timers and the she devils, etc offensive  is beyond me.  The constant poking and insinuations to stir things up. But I make a comment as to she has no clue and you take offense. It is disrturbing to me, and makes me wonder what is going on that folks seem to be blinded by this person's antics.  That is why we are down here, to avoid confrontation. but it continues to follow us due to this person. I am happy you feel a kinship to her and want to defend her no matter what, but please do not do so at the expense of my post.

[cuteus]

like I said Cin, it had nothing to do with anyone else but the stirrer. Please don't make it more than it is. It does not involve you.

"but I feel that you are always making reference to the 'old timers' and the 'newbies' and saying that you (old timer) can't be bothered with any of us newbies (which btw, I absolutely hate that term) because we are so clueless and what do we know? THAT is what I dislike."

Interesting that you keep seeing what is not there, as I have never posted anything that resembles what you are claiming or used the word newbies in over a month as to avoid the exact same thing you and veg keep bringing up, conflict.
The no clue issue had to do with HER statement of believing people are talking about her. Why do you feel it has to do with anyone else?  THe jealousy has to do with wanting to be part of something she can't be, a group of friends that have been bonded prior to her arrival, nothing else, no one is claiming to know everything here. No one does.


Why have you not noticed who keeps making the references you are accusing me off?:

"hehehe you're almost as goofy as our resident goof!! Yes I know you wuv me, and I wuv you too! But, you know what - Angie is soooo right about your diplomacy, many on here could learn from Miss New York (huh and they say NYer's are arrogant, can't prove that by our lil gal) check your email once in awhile eh girlie!!! lol"
AND
"I find it odd some people that have completed treatment seek out chaos and look for ways to "push buttons"...I think maybe a study should be done on this, maybe it's the flip side of riba rage that is leaving a lasting side and the medical profession has not caught it yet...Cause if you notice, the ones that are currently treating do not seem to be as hostile, and the ones that are not treating are for the most part very calm, just some of the ones that have gone through tx seem to have this hostility...Intersting to say the least...Another reason to wait on tx..."

Is it because we are trying to ignore the antics displayed, that has inspired an increase in the desire to stir conflict?
Or maybe I am misinterpreting her intent, just like you are doing with us down here.
Look, I have not called you or anyone names, have not insulted or badgered anyone, I am tired of tip toeing in MH because people might misinterpret, as long as I am not attacking you or her, how about staying out of a situation that has nothing to do with you?  The moment I attack you personally, you can let me have it.
I can sense you have developed a dislike for my presence here and a camaraderie with the veg, that is great, let's just keep it as civil as possible and ask your friend to try her best to ease on her baiting. we are not biting from now on.
take care

[cquest]

***@****

cuteus, to be honest, I can't remember the entire gist of the riff between her and you or who was involved, I can't remember what I had for dinner last night, never mind this cr*p...but I feel that you are always making reference to the 'old timers' and the 'newbies' and saying that you (old timer) can't be bothered with any of us newbies (which btw, I absolutely hate that term) because we are so clueless and what do we know? THAT is what I dislike.

I don't like the reference to being jealous either...which I can't for the life of me figure out what there is to be jealous of...vast knowledge or something, maybe? I don't know...and who died and left anybody boss of the bottom feeder area anyway? THAT is what I dislike, that 'sense of entitlement' and the ruling elite attitude...really don't like it...

But you know what? We are ALL guests here and should be grateful that we have the opportunity to express our thoughts in this forum and should try to do so respectfuly, don't you agree?
Cin

[vegas777]

vegas777
12/10/2005
C23  . you all can keep poking at me, I don't mind...If you're poking at me you're leaving someone else alone *smile*

[foreverfriends1]

Doo Dee please email me, if you want to chat. I was also meant to have a Hysterectomy. It was only then, that blood tests came back, showing elevated GammaGT and AST/ALT. It is worrying.There are others who will try to help you too.I admire so many people here - even though i do not know them. Many, are suffering - yet, they will always try to give good advice:)

"Cuteous and Scruffy"

It is "scary"  writing on the boards for the first time. The Ultrasound of my liver, gallbladder and spleen, seemed to be OK. GammaGT has still not gone down. You two, are friendly and kind to us Newbies:) I have asked for a whole range of blood tests. in the meantime, I send best wishes to you - from Manchester - England. My arm is almost black, as it is covered in bruises : having read your other post I have asked for ALL Blood tests to rule out Hepatites. I hope, I can find you guys if the results, are NOT good.  Thanks for the help that you give to us new ones, and ((HUGS)) foreverfriends1

[cuteus]

I was worried about you! I am glad you are still on your quest for answers, gosh! I do hope someone comes up with them.
Once the hepatitis tests are done, and you have the results, please post them in the above threads, there are so many knowledgeable people and so many different experiences that someone might give you a good suggestion for a path to follow. I just read something about excessive bruising, platelets or high hemoglobin, I can't remember.  When you get the hep results and your blood chemistry, post the results and the range used by the lab, and see if anyone can figure things out>\
Keep in touch.
((hugs))

[cquest]

I comment on my OWN feelings and opinions which DO involve me...sorry if it bothers you.
Cin

[scruffy]

Don't sweat writing here or up top. All kinds of people post-most are friendly and some quite smart. This is a great place to get info and support most of the time. Best to you-Frank

[foreverfriends1]

Cuteous - My bloods have been rushed to another hospital. With Ast/Alt now going up and antinuclear positive....I am concerned.
They could be gone for 3 weeks. Doc keeps asking have i had or  Viral Hepatitus (hepatitis).

Reading thru, some of your threads, can be funny. So many of you, are dealing with "Truckloads of Stress" and are possibly exhausted thru treatment.

I wish you, a peaceful Christmas. Take Care donna - foreverfriends1

[cuteus]

try to get some distraction to the anxiety, just don't shop too much for the Holidays, that could stress you even more.  I can't believe it takes so long to get the results back, ok, I guess I would be impatient too. I hope they tested for all the viruses from A to E, they need to rule that out once and for all.
take care
I am not on tx anymore, TG, I finished a yr ago, and my hep c ran off with the milkman, I think.
take care

[foreverfriends1]

Scruffy - Thanks for the advice. I am exhausted with so many blood tests and I am still getting no answers.

May this Christmas, bring you peace. Take Care Frank - love foreverfriends1 - donna x

[RyHunt]

Hello:

My Corporation took out a large Insurance Policy on me and as part of that I went through a Typical Med Exam. Everything turned out fine but the Insurance Downgraded My Policy due to results associated with a High Enzyme Count in my Liver. Not being knowledgeable in this area I totally freaked out! I went to the Internet to check things out and got more freaked out.....Now I have scheduled an appt. with a Doctor for further Testing but has anybody else had this happen?  I'm 44 years old and the Policy was for 4.0m but based on the tests they would only give me 3.6m  

I don't understand if it was that severe why would they even insure me? They won't tell me anything as I have to formally send a letter in and that could take 30 days.

Any Ideas or is Pacific Life screwing with me for more profits? or is it a combination?

Need Information and I don't know where to turn to since the holidays are upon us and I can't get into the doctor till afterwards.

Please HELP!