Poor liver function

[Matt M.]

Hello,

I'm a 38 year old male with a history of binge drinking. I've been completely sober for 5 months now and entirely committed to remaining so. Over a month ago I developed chronic chapped lips and cracks in the corner of my mouth. My liver enzymes are all normal range as of 3 weeks ago. My bilirubin was a bit higher than it was 2 years ago, but still in normal limits and albumin is a bit lower than 2 years ago but still normal. My naturopathic doctor is treating me for systemic yeast infection that he thinks is stress and diet related. However, I've had some back pain since adding prescription strength supplements that I think is coming from my liver or gallbladder. My question is can a immune deficiency that gave way to yeast overgrowth indicate a failing liver even though blood levels look good?  

[nurseinstead12]

i am telling everyone to avoid drinking alcohol.Excessive consumption of alcohol can damage your liver.

[Matt M.]

Thank you, Mike. I'm highly motivated to stay sober and am getting the support needed in order to do so. I have an ultrasound in a couple days to look at the gallbladder and kidneys. I suspect given the location of the gallbladder to the liver potential liver abnormalities would also show up. I'll stay optimistic until the results come back. Thanks, again.

[mikesimon]

I am not a doctor or in the medical field in any capacity. I am merely a patient so, please, keep that in mind when you read my post.

Generally, I would not expect to see liver disease when the liver associated blood work looks normal.
Is it possible to have normal liver enzymes and liver function tests (bilirubin/albumin) and still have a liver problem?
Yes, I suppose it is.
Is it common? I don't think it is very common and, if I were you, I would not worry about liver disease. That does not mean that I think binge drinking or abusing alcohol is a wise choice because I definitely do not believe that. But, I think if your liver was under attack or damaged it would be reflected in your blood work.

I really do not know anything about yeast infections but when I hear the term "immune deficiency" I get a little skeptical.

Prescription pain killers can be hard on the liver but so too can Tylenol if used in excess. I know nothing about "prescription strength supplements" and therefore I can't comment/speculate on their effect on the liver.

Good luck,
Mike