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According to the Mayo Clinic, a test that demonstrates a high level of liver enzymes means that there could be damage to or inflammation of your liver. However, in most cases elevated enzyme levels do not indicate anything serious.
Function
If your liver is inflamed or injured, its cells tend to secrete enzymes into the bloodstream. These levels are then picked up on blood exams.
Effects
In some situations, disease of the liver can raise your level of enzymes. Diseases such as hepatitis, diffuse fatty liver disease, and obesity all can elevate levels of liver enzymes.
Other Factors
Other factors, such as a heart attack, the Epstein-Barr virus, celiac disease, thyroid issues and muscular dystrophy, can raise liver enzyme levels.
Expert Insight
If your test results demonstrate elevated levels of liver enzymes, your doctor may suggest that you go for further testing to figure out the exact cause of the elevation.
Warning
If you take pain medication such as acetaminophen, which is found in Tylenol, on a regular basis, it can damage your liver and raise levels of enzymes.
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