How to Treat Elevated Blood Enzymes
Enzymes can be found in all cells of the body. They serve as catalysts for chemical and metabolic processes to help meet the body's needs. When any type of cell or tissue is damaged, it leaks enzymes into the blood stream, causing blood tests to detect elevated blood enzymes.
Enzymes can be found in all cells of the body. They serve as catalysts for chemical and metabolic processes to help meet the body's needs. When any type of cell or tissue is damaged, it leaks enzymes into the blood stream, causing blood tests to detect elevated blood enzymes. Blood tests measure two types of enzymes, ALT and AST, which are found in the liver, heart and muscles. These results signify cell damage and possibly an underlying disorder, so it is important to speak with your physician if you obtain elevated blood enzyme levels on your blood tests.
Step 1
Undergo tests to check for damage to the muscles, liver or heart. In many instances, elevated blood enzymes are caused by liver disease, cardiovascular problems or muscle damage. Have your doctor test your liver, heart and muscles to determine if they have sustained damage and are the root causes of the elevated blood enzymes.
Step 2
Request your doctor evaluate you for cancer. Tumors or cancer can cause tissue or cell damage in the body, thus raising the levels of blood enzymes in the blood stream. If you test negative for liver, muscle or heart damage, ask your doctor evaluate you for cancer.
Step 3
Limit using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications. Certain anti-inflammatory medications can cause damage to cells or tissues in the body. With your physician's permission, limit your use of OTC anti-inflammatory medications until the root of your elevated blood enzymes is discovered.
Step 4
Maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen. As you and your doctor work to uncover the root cause of elevated blood enzymes, it is important that you eat healthy and exercise regularly to promote good health and build your body's immune system.
Step 5
Incorporate supplements into your diet. Researchers are studying the effects of folic acid and vitamin B12 in patients with elevated blood enzymes. Although it is still under trial, these supplements may help lower the levels.
Step 6
Try statin drugs. Elevated blood enzyme levels could signify an increased risk for cardiovascular problems. Statin drugs help lower cholesterol levels in the blood to minimize the risk of heart attack or cardiovascular arrest.
warning
Never exercise if you feel faint, dizzy or nauseous. Listen to your body to determine if you are well enough to exercise.