SGPT Normal Range: The liver is a crucial organ in the human body, responsible for removing toxins, metabolizing medication, and breaking down blood components to extract nutrients. It also produces bile, which helps transport waste material to the excretory organs. Given the liver’s vital role, maintaining its health is essential. Doctors often prescribe specific tests to diagnose and monitor liver health, including checking the SGPT normal range. This test measures the level of the liver enzyme SGPT in a blood sample.
What is SGPT?
SGPT, or serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, also known as Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), is an enzyme used to assess liver health. SGPT is found in the heart as well, so elevated levels can indicate a heart attack. In the liver, SGPT catalyzes components in the alanine cycle, converting L-alanine to α-ketoglutarate and back. Another related test, SGOT or glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, also known as aspartate transaminase (AST), is used alongside SGPT to diagnose liver issues.
Purposes of SGPT Blood Test
SGPT tests are prescribed when symptoms suggest liver dysfunction. The presence of SGPT in the blood indicates liver damage, as damaged liver cells release enzymes into the bloodstream. Conditions that can cause elevated SGPT levels include:
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Liver cirrhosis
- Acute viral hepatitis B and A
- Hepatitis C
- Liver tumors (benign and malignant)
- Liver ischemia (insufficient blood flow)
- Cholecystitis (gall bladder inflammation)
- Celiac disease
- Diabetes
- Heart attack
- Epstein-Barr virus
In pregnancy, SGPT levels often rise, so monitoring these levels is recommended. Certain medications, like antibiotics and anti-tuberculosis drugs, can also elevate SGPT levels.
When to Get the SGPT Test
The SGPT test is necessary when the liver is injured and secretes enzymes into the blood. Symptoms that might prompt a doctor to order an SGPT test include:
- Vomiting or nausea
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Swollen legs
- Excessive bleeding or bruising
- Jaundice
Jaundice, a primary sign of liver damage, occurs when bilirubin spreads throughout the body, indicating the liver is not functioning correctly.
SGPT Normal Range in Liver Blood Test
The SGPT normal range can vary slightly between laboratories but generally falls between 7 and 55 units per liter (u/L) of blood. The SGOT normal range is between 5 and 40 units per liter of serum. Levels above these ranges indicate potential liver or other organ issues, including pancreatitis, heart attack, kidney disease, acute hepatitis C, and hemochromatosis. If your blood test shows values outside the SGPT normal range, it may indicate liver damage or disease.
How to Naturally Lower SGPT and SGOT Levels
Elevated SGPT and SGOT levels suggest liver stress or damage. Lifestyle changes to lower these levels include:
- Regular exercise
- Consuming foods rich in vitamin D
- Reducing intake of junk food and high-cholesterol foods
- Lowering salt intake
- Eating fruits and vegetables high in antioxidants
- Quitting or reducing smoking
- Regular check-ups are essential to ensure your SGPT normal range stays within healthy limits.
Preventive Measures to Control on SGPT Level
Preventive measures to control SGPT levels include maintaining a healthy lifestyle through a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while avoiding excessive alcohol and processed foods. Regular exercise and staying hydrated are crucial for liver health. Avoiding unnecessary medications and toxins, such as cigarettes, can also prevent liver stress. Regular health check-ups and monitoring liver function can help detect any early signs of liver issues, allowing for timely intervention and management. Factors such as alcohol consumption and medication can affect the SGPT normal range. Doctors use the SGPT normal range as a benchmark to diagnose liver conditions.
Conclusion
Maintaining liver health is crucial for overall well-being. The liver processes blood to extract and utilize nutrients while flushing out toxins. Avoid excessive alcohol and medication intake to prevent liver damage. If you suspect liver issues, consult a doctor and get a comprehensive health check-up, including SGPT and SGOT level tests.
FAQs
What is Epstein-Barr virus?
The Epstein-Barr virus, or Human gammaherpesvirus 4, is a virus causing sexually transmitted diseases and infectious mononucleosis. It spreads through saliva, with symptoms including swollen lymph nodes in the armpits and throat.
Can SGPT levels be abnormally low?
While the SGPT normal range is between 5 and 56 units/liter, levels below 5 can indicate issues such as a vitamin B6 deficiency or hormone replacement therapy effects.
Can pasta cause SGPT levels to rise?
Yes, consuming pasta can cause an increase in SGPT levels.