Liver Function

The Liver Function Test (LFT) is a blood test that helps evaluate how well your liver is working. The liver is one of the most important organs in the body. It helps in digestion, removes toxins from the blood, stores energy, and produces essential proteins.

Many liver problems do not show clear symptoms in the early stages. That is why routine testing becomes important, especially for people who are at risk.

An LFT measures several key parameters, including:

• ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase)

• AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase)

• Bilirubin

• Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)

• Total Protein and Albumin

Abnormal levels in these markers may indicate conditions such as fatty liver, hepatitis, liver infection, alcohol-related liver damage, medication-related liver stress, or chronic liver disease.

Doctors usually recommend a Liver Function Test if you:

• Experience yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice)

• Have persistent fatigue or weakness

• Notice dark urine or pale stools

• Have abdominal pain or swelling

• Consume alcohol regularly

• Are taking long-term medication

• Have a history of hepatitis or liver disease

The test requires a simple blood sample and does not take much time. Early detection through an LFT allows doctors to manage liver conditions effectively before they become serious.

Regular liver screening is especially important for people with diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, or viral infections, as these conditions can silently affect liver health.