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Go directly to the lab, no extra fees
With friendly doctor's notes & guidance
Lab visit as quick as 10 mins in & out
We stand behind our service
Go directly to the lab, no extra fees
With friendly doctor's notes & guidance
Lab visit as quick as 10 mins in & out
This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained mental confusion, fatigue, or symptoms that might be related to liver problems. It measures ammonia levels in your blood, which can become elevated when your liver isn't functioning properly or in certain metabolic conditions. Many people use this test when they have symptoms like disorientation, unusual tiredness, or when their doctor suspects liver dysfunction that could be causing neurological symptoms.
For accurate results, avoid clenching your fist during blood collection, as muscle activity can increase ammonia levels. You should also avoid smoking before your blood draw since smoking raises plasma ammonia levels. The phlebotomist will collect your blood without using a tourniquet to ensure the most accurate measurement possible.
This test measures plasma ammonia levels, which is a critical indicator of how well your liver is processing protein waste products. Elevated ammonia can signal serious liver conditions like cirrhosis, hepatitis, or hepatic encephalopathy, and can also be elevated in heart failure or certain lung conditions. This single but important measurement helps identify the cause of neurological symptoms like confusion or fatigue that may be linked to your body's inability to properly clear ammonia from your bloodstream.
What this means
Your plasma ammonia level is elevated above the optimal range. This may indicate that your liver is having difficulty converting ammonia to urea for elimination, which can contribute to symptoms like fatigue, confusion, or difficulty concentrating. Elevated ammonia requires medical attention to identify the underlying cause and prevent further complications.
Recommended actions
Follow up with your doctor or a liver specialist to discuss results and underlying causes
Consider reducing dietary protein intake if recommended by your healthcare provider
Stay well-hydrated to support kidney function and toxin elimination
Avoid alcohol completely and discuss any medications that may affect liver function