Liver is one of the most vital organs of the human body and performs several functions such as regulating blood clotting, storing vitamins and minerals, eliminating the contaminants from the blood, etc. A liver function test or LFT blood test plays a key role in determining any liver disorder and provides an accurate indication of the overall health of the liver.

An LFT blood test measures the levels of liver enzymes, proteins, and bilirubin in the blood to determine the health of the liver, and identifies whether the liver is effectively performing its functions of producing protein and clearing a blood waste product called “bilirubin” or not.

Why is LFT Blood Test Important?

There are various situations which demand a liver function test. Some of them include:

1. Identifying any damage due to liver infections such as Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.
2. Monitoring the side-effects of medications that are known to negatively impact the health of the liver.
3. To monitor an existing liver disease and check the effectiveness of a particular treatment.
4. Measuring the severity of a liver disease, especially liver cirrhosis.

When Should You Take the Test?

If you’re experiencing any symptoms of a liver disorder, taking an LFT blood test is highly recommended. Some of the common symptoms of a liver disorder include weakness or lack of energy, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, abdominal pain, indication of jaundice like yellow eyes and skin, fatigue, dark urine or light stools, and abnormal bleeding.

Who Should Take the Test?

Some people are more prone to suffering from a liver disorder due to a number of reasons. People for whom an LFT blood test becomes even more important include:

• Consuming excess quantities of alcohol
• People who are suffering from a gallbladder disease
• People who are suffering from other medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, anemia, and high triglycerides.

How to Prepare?

It is important to be well-prepared before taking an LFT blood test as the intake of certain foods and medications can affect the accuracy of the results. Listening to your doctor’s advice in terms of food items and medications to avoid is a must for accurate results.

Taking good care of the liver is vital for leading a healthy life. If you feel there’s anything wrong with your liver, get a pathology lab test immediately done. Remember, abnormal test results don’t necessarily mean that you’re suffering from a liver disease. But these test results will help the doctor decide a suitable course of action for treating your condition.