Warning Signs of High SGPT: Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Did you know?

Liver disease causes nearly 2 million deaths every year, accounting for 4% of all deaths worldwide, which is about 1 in every 25 deaths; approximately two-thirds of liver-related deaths occur in men.

But how? Can this be prevented? 

There are many reasons; let's read more to understand them in detail.

Your liver is one of the most vital parts of your body, responsible for a wide range of functions. From filtering toxins out of the blood to producing bile for digestion to storing essential nutrients, your liver does it all. 

One important indicator of liver health is SGPT (Serum Glutamic Pyruvic Transaminase), also known as ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase). SGPT is an enzyme found mainly in liver cells, and high levels in the blood can be an early warning sign of liver inflammation or damage.

Fatty liver, liver cirrhosis, and other liver diseases are quite common these days. When the liver is damaged or injured or produces excess enzymes, the levels of SGOT and SGPT become high.

In this blog, let's learn more about SGPT, the causes of elevated levels, symptoms, diagnostic methods, tips to lower SGPT, and more to help you manage and maintain liver health effectively.

What Causes High SGPT Levels?

High SGPT levels can result from various factors, including:

1. Liver diseases—Diseases like fatty liver can deposit extra fat in the liver. There are two types: non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and Alcohol-related fatty liver disease (ALD). Other liver diseases, like hepatitis and cirrhosis, can also cause liver damage.
2. Medications—A few medicines may affect your liver in the long term. So, it is important to avoid taking unnecessary medicines like antibiotics, statins, and analgesics (Painkillers), which may cause liver damage and can increase your SGOT and SGPT levels.
3. Alcohol Consumption- IF you drink excessive alcohol, then it can cause liver damage and may increase your SGPT levels. However, heavy drinking may lead to cirrhosis, which is the last stage of alcoholic liver disease.
4. Obesity- Fat accumulation in the liver is another reason for high SGPT levels that may also known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
5. Diabetes and High Cholesterol- Both can damage the liver over time, increasing SGPT levels.
6. Other Medical Conditions- Many different conditions may cause high SGPT levels; these are-
• Wilson disease 
• Thyroid disorders 
• Heart attack 
• Muscle disorders 
• Pancreatitis 
• Hemochromatosis 
• Mononucleosis

What Are the Symptoms of High SGPT Levels?

The SGPT levels do not show visible symptoms in the early stages. It gradually increases and shows the following symptoms-

• Fatigue 
• Weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Jaundice
• Weight Loss
• Change in stool color to pale yellow
• Pain and swelling in the abdomen
• Dark color in urine
• Swelling in legs and ankles
• Frequent skin itching
• Loss of appetite

What is Considered as Normal SGPT Levels?

Here are the normal, high, and low SGPT (ALT) levels:

• Normal SGPT Level Range- 7 to 56 units per liter (U/L).
• High SGPT Levels- Above 56 U/L
• Low SGPT Levels- Below 7 U/L

How to Diagnose High SGPT Levels?

If you are experiencing the above symptoms, the next step is to consult your doctor and get to know the exact cause of these symptoms. A simple blood test can detect high SGPT levels. Your doctor may recommend some liver blood tests to assess liver health. Your doctor may advise you to take additional tests to understand the underlying cause, including:

• Liver Function Tests (LFTs)
• SGPT / ALT Test
• Imaging tests detect liver abnormalities, including ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI.
• Liver Biopsy to detect liver damage.

Tips to Lower High SGPT Levels

Lifestyle changes can play an integral role in maintaining optimal SGPT levels:

• Say no to alcohol- Alcohol consumption is the major cause of liver inflammation that ultimately leads to cirrhosis. Reduce or avoid alcohol to relieve your liver strain. However, if you have high SGPT levels, then it's a warning sign that your liver has started damaging slowly, and you should stop drinking immediately
• Regular Exercise- Exercise is the best way to lower your liver inflammation risk and reduce fat accumulation.
• Maintain your BMI levels—Excess body fat can lead to obesity, which causes fatty liver disease. Hence, if you have symptoms of high SGPT levels, you should work on maintaining a healthy weight and BMI with diet and exercise.
• Avoid Overuse of Medications- Prolonged or excessive use of certain medications can raise SGPT levels.
• Avoid physical relationships with multiple partners- This risk of liver-related diseases is high if you share a bed with various partners. So, it's advisable to have safe intercourse.
• Stay Hydrated- Aim to drink at least 4-5 liters of water each day to maintain a healthy metabolism. Water is a natural detoxifier and also keeps your liver healthy.
• Know your family history—If you have a family history of liver issues, the risk of liver inflammation increases. Hence, know your family history of any disease to start your treatment early.
• Vaccination—Hepatitis B and C cause liver inflammation. Hence, it is always advised to get vaccinated against hepatitis to protect yourself from liver diseases like hepatitis. 

Here are some additional tips to control your SGPT levels-

• Choose a healthy lifestyle
• Take a nutritious and balanced diet
• Reduce your weight in case of obesity
• Include more Vitamin D in your diet. 
• Avoid too much salt
• Quit smoking 

Read More: SGPT Test - Normal Range, Price, Causes & Symptoms

Top 10 Foods to Lower High SGPT Levels Naturally

A balanced diet plays an important role in maintaining liver health. Here is the list of top 10 foods that can support liver health and lower your SGPT levels- 

1. Leafy Greens- Veggies like spinach and kale are rich in antioxidants and support your liver health.
2. Turmeric is considered the best anti-inflammatory spice. Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps liver function and reduces inflammation.
3. Oatmeal- Whole oats are a good addition to decrease your SGPT levels. They are rich in nutrients and support to improve your liver function. 
4. Garlic—Indians don’t use garlic to add flavors; there are scientific reasons behind it. It is packed with antioxidants and is also known for its liver-cleansing properties. 
5. Fatty Fish- Omega-3 fatty acids can also help to reduce your SGPT levels. They are found in fish like salmon and help reduce liver inflammation.
6. Avocados- This nutritious food is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants and is good for liver health.
7. Green Tea- Herbal or green tea is rich in antioxidants and helps with liver function.
8. Olive Oil- This oil contains unsaturated fatty acids, which makes it good to consume and also lowers liver inflammation.
9. Nuts- Nuts like peanuts and almonds are good for your liver health. They contain unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin D, and antioxidants. You can add these healthy nuts as your snacking option. 
10. Berries—These delicious berries contain a high amount of antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which can lower liver enzyme levels.

Read more: How to Reduce SGPT Level Quickly?

Treatment for High SGPT Levels

There might be several reasons for high SGPT levels. However, with early intervention and treatment, you can manage the symptoms. Here are some common treatments include:

• Medications- Antiviral drugs for hepatitis or specific medications for liver diseases.
• Lifestyle Changes—It is important to make a routine of everything, try to do regular physical activity, eat a healthy diet, and indulge in stress-reducing techniques that can benefit liver health.
• Avoid Toxic Substances- Do not drink or use any type of toxic substances that may damage your liver.
• Supplements—Foods containing supplements like vitamin E, Milk thistle, and others are good for maintaining liver functioning and health. 

Note: It is important to consult your doctor before adding anything new to your diet. 

The Key Takeaways

So, now you know the warning symptoms of high SGPT levels that could stress your liver and should not be overlooked. By identifying the early symptoms, making dietary and lifestyle changes, and taking appropriate medical evaluations, you can help maintain optimal liver health and reduce SGPT levels naturally.

However, maintaining your SGPT levels is easier than you think. Make small, consistent changes in your diet and lifestyle to lower your SGPT levels and improve your liver health. 

Consult with your doctor if you have any concerns about your liver health. They can recommend important tests, like the LFT test, to determine your liver health status and get you treated on time.

 FAQs

1. What is a normal SGPT level?

A normal SGPT level ranges from 7 to 56 uPL.

2. Can high SGPT levels be reversed?

High SGPT levels may be reversed with the right lifestyle, dietary changes, and timely proper treatment.

4. Is a high SGPT level dangerous?

Yes, high SGPT levels can cause liver damage, but they are not dangerous on their own.

5. What happens if your SGPT is high?

If your SGPT level is high, it indicates liver injury or damage. High SGPT causes may include conditions like cirrhosis, hepatitis, obesity, alcohol, and drug abuse.

6. How can I reduce my SGPT levels?

To reduce your SGPT levels, avoid sugary drinks and snacks and limit your consumption of processed foods. Consume fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.