Q. What are some of the things a doctor might be looking for in an LFT blood test?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

A doctor might order a liver function test (LFT), also known as a liver panel or liver blood test, to check for a variety of things related to your liver health. Here's a breakdown of some key areas a doctor may be looking at:

1. Identifying Liver Damage:

  • The liver function test measures the levels of enzymes and proteins in your blood. Abnormal levels of these substances can indicate damage to liver cells.

  • For instance, high levels of enzymes like ALT (alanine transaminase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) often suggest liver injury.

2. Screening for Liver Diseases:

  • LFTs can help screen for various liver diseases, including hepatitis (viral infections), cirrhosis (scarring of the liver), and fatty liver disease.

  • The test results along with your symptoms can help guide further investigation.

3. Monitoring Existing Liver Disease:

  • If you already have a diagnosed liver condition, LFTs become crucial for monitoring the progression of the disease.

  • Tracking changes in enzyme and protein levels over time helps assess the effectiveness of treatment and identify any potential complications.

4. Checking for Medication Side Effects:

  • Certain medications can have side effects on the liver.

  • An LFT can help identify any liver damage caused by medications you're taking.

5. Overall Liver Function Assessment:

  • The liver performs many vital functions, including protein synthesis, waste product removal, and blood clotting.

  • LFT results provide a general idea of how well your liver is functioning in these areas.

It's important to remember that an LFT alone may not be diagnostic of a specific liver condition. However, it's a valuable tool for doctors to assess your liver health and determine if further tests are necessary.

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Q. Hello Doctor, from past 3 weeks I have too much dandruff problem and it cause hair loss will you suggest any best solution for this?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Dealing with excessive dandruff leading to hair loss can be frustrating, but there are effective ways to address this issue. Here's what you can do:

1. Switch to a Gentle Shampoo: Opt for shampoos specifically designed for dandruff, containing ingredients like ketoconazole, zinc pyrithione, coal tar, or selenium sulfide. Use these shampoos regularly to reduce dandruff buildup.

2. Scalp Massage: Gently massage your scalp while shampooing to help remove flakes and improve blood circulation, which can promote healthier hair growth.

3. Avoid Hot Water: Wash your hair with lukewarm water instead of hot water, as hot water can dry out your scalp and worsen dandruff.

4. Balanced Diet: Ensure you're eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for healthy hair and scalp, such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and B vitamins.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate dandruff problems. Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation, yoga, or regular exercise to help manage stress levels.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar Rinse: Consider using diluted apple cider vinegar as a rinse after shampooing. It can help restore the scalp's pH balance and reduce dandruff.

7. Consult a Dermatologist: If the issue persists despite trying home remedies or over-the-counter solutions, seek advice from a dermatologist. They can provide a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific scalp condition.

Remember, consistency is key when dealing with dandruff. Give these remedies some time to work, as immediate results might not always occur. It's essential to find what works best for your scalp, so don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate improvements.

Taking care of your scalp health not only addresses dandruff but also aids in reducing hair loss associated with this issue. Feel free to incorporate these tips into your routine and observe how your scalp responds. If the problem persists or worsens, seeking professional guidance is always recommended.

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