What Issues Cause Elevated Gamma-Glutamyltransferase Levels?

Elevated gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) levels may indicate issues with the liver or biliary system, often causing concern. GGT is an enzyme present in the liver and biliary system, and an increase in its levels usually suggests damage to hepatocytes or bile ducts. Simply put, if your GGT is high, it may mean that your liver is sending you a distress signal.

In daily life, there are many reasons for elevated GGT levels. One of the most common causes is long-term alcohol consumption. The damage to the liver from alcohol accumulates gradually, and excessive long-term alcohol intake can lead to hepatocyte damage, thereby causing an increase in GGT. Additionally, the use of certain medications may also result in elevated GGT levels, such as antiepileptic drugs, antibiotics, and some heart medications. Of course, hepatitis, fatty liver disease, biliary diseases, and other conditions are also common factors that can cause an increase in GGT levels.

If you find that your GGT levels are high, the first thing to do is review your lifestyle and medication history. Do you have a habit of excessive alcohol consumption? Have you been taking certain medications for a long time? These are factors to consider. Next, it is best to undergo further examinations under a doctor's guidance, such as liver function tests and liver ultrasonography, to rule out or confirm possible liver diseases.

Adjusting your lifestyle is key to lowering GGT levels. Reducing or quitting alcohol intake is a crucial step. A healthy diet and appropriate exercise can also help improve liver health. For those who need to take medications long-term, it is recommended to communicate with your doctor to see if it is possible to adjust the type or dosage of medication to reduce its impact on the liver.

In general, elevated GGT levels do not necessarily indicate a serious problem, but it is a health signal that needs attention. By actively adjusting your lifestyle and undergoing medical examinations, we can better protect our liver health. Remember, the liver is an organ that works silently, and its health is crucial to our overall well-being.