What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your ALT level means for your liver health and overall wellness. These notes include personalized recommendations like dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, supplement suggestions, or whether you should follow up with a healthcare provider. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your ALT levels over time using our trends feature to monitor your liver health and see how your interventions are working.

When will I get my results?

Most ALT test results are available within 1-2 business days after your blood sample reaches the lab. You'll receive an email notification when your results are ready, along with easy-to-understand doctor notes explaining what your levels mean. Complex cases may occasionally take slightly longer, but most people have their results within 48 hours.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for anyone with risk factors for liver disease, including regular alcohol use, obesity, diabetes, or a family history of liver problems. It's also valuable if you take medications known to affect the liver, have been exposed to hepatitis, or experience symptoms like persistent fatigue, nausea, or abdominal pain. People managing existing liver conditions should test regularly to monitor their health.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms that suggest you might need an ALT test include unexplained fatigue or weakness, loss of appetite, nausea or vomiting, and abdominal pain or swelling in the upper right side. More obvious signs include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or pale stools. Even without symptoms, this test is valuable for anyone with liver disease risk factors.

How can I naturally support my liver health?

Supporting liver health starts with limiting alcohol consumption and maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular exercise. Eating plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins while avoiding processed foods and excess sugar helps reduce liver stress. Staying hydrated, avoiding unnecessary medications or supplements, and managing conditions like diabetes can also protect your liver function.

What does high ALT mean?

Elevated ALT levels indicate that liver cells are damaged or inflamed, releasing more of this enzyme into your bloodstream. Common causes include fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, alcohol-related liver damage, certain medications, or other liver conditions. The degree of elevation helps determine severity, with mild increases often related to lifestyle factors and higher levels suggesting more significant liver issues requiring medical attention.

How often should I retest my ALT levels?

If your ALT is elevated, your doctor will likely recommend retesting in 2-4 weeks to see if it's temporary or persistent. For people managing liver conditions or taking medications that affect the liver, testing every 3-6 months is common for ongoing monitoring. If your levels are normal but you have risk factors, annual testing can help catch problems early before symptoms develop.