Ask a doctor - What is the liver function test?

Q. What is the liver function test?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Your liver is like a superhero in your body, working hard to keep things running smoothly. But sometimes, it needs a check-up to make sure everything is okay. That's where liver function tests (LFTs) come in.

Think of LFTs as a set of blood tests that help doctors see how well your liver is doing its job. They check for various things like enzymes, proteins, and other substances that can give clues about your liver health.

When you hear "liver test" or "liver function test," it could mean a bunch of different tests, like ALT, AST, ALP, bilirubin, and albumin. Each of these tests looks at different aspects of your liver function.

ALT (alanine aminotransferase) and AST (aspartate aminotransferase) are enzymes that your liver releases when it's damaged or inflamed. ALP (alkaline phosphatase) is another enzyme that can signal liver or bone problems.

Bilirubin is a yellow pigment made when old red blood cells break down. High levels of bilirubin can mean your liver isn't clearing it out properly, which could indicate liver disease.

Albumin is a protein made by your liver, and low levels might suggest liver damage or disease.

Now, why would you need these tests? Well, if you have symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin), fatigue, nausea, or abdominal pain, your doctor might order LFTs to see if your liver is involved.

Also, if you have risk factors for liver problems, like heavy alcohol use, viral hepatitis, obesity, or certain medications, your doctor might want to keep an eye on your liver function.

Remember, LFTs aren't a diagnosis on their own. They're more like a piece of the puzzle that helps your doctor figure out what's going on with your liver. If your results are abnormal, your doctor might order more tests or recommend treatments to help your liver get back to its superhero self!

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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.