SGOT Test (AST): Normal Range, Purpose, Symptoms & Meaning

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According to research, fatty liver disease affects over 35% of Indian children. An estimated 40–50 crore individuals in India are currently impacted when the numbers for adults and children are combined.

This points towards the next big health emergency. Our way of life continuously puts the liver to the test, from having coffee in the morning on an empty stomach to snacking at midnight while browsing. The liver becomes silently overworked when stress, long periods of sitting, and occasional alcohol consumption are added. It hardly displays direct pain, contrary to other organs. Rather, your SGOT level slowly increases as a warning. The test aids in identifying early liver stress before it becomes a significant problem. This blog will teach you the definition of this test, the typical range, how to interpret your results, and what high levels suggest.

What is the SGOT test?

Serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase is referred to as SGOT. Another name for it is the Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) test. The specific kinds of enzymes in your blood are essentially measured by this test. The kidneys, heart, and muscles all have SGOT enzymes in addition to the liver. SGOT levels increase, and the enzymes seep into the blood when any of these organs are damaged or inflamed. This gives medical professionals access to actual health problems. Over 32% of Indians have early-stage liver problems, and many of them are unaware of it, according to health statistics. The SGOT test is crucial for preventative health because of this.

Also Read: SGPT & SGOT Test: Normal Range, Levels, and What They Indicate?

What are the reasons to perform the SGOT blood test?

Different reasons point towards performing this blood test : 

To assess the health of the liver:

This test is crucial for analyzing overall liver function since it can detect early liver damage, inflammation, or infections.

To identify conditions affecting the liver: 

By identifying increased blood enzyme levels, it aids in the diagnosis of cirrhosis, fatty liver, hepatitis, and alcohol-related liver diseases.

To keep an eye on continuing therapy:

When treating liver disorders or conditions connected to the muscles, doctors utilize SGOT levels to monitor improvement or deterioration.

To identify muscle damage: 

SGOT levels increase when muscles are damaged by trauma, strenuous exercise, accidents, or illnesses such as muscular dystrophy. 

To assess heart-related problems: 

The test can help aid assessment during heart attacks or cardiac stress because a high SGOT may indicate heart damage.

To evaluate drug side effects: 

This testing helps track whether pharmaceuticals are elevating liver enzymes because some medications can damage the liver.

To assess overall metabolic health: 

This test can reveal hidden metabolic disorders such as alcohol damage, liver difficulties associated with obesity, or the impact of uncontrolled diabetes.

How to perform the test?

The SGOT test only takes a few minutes and is very easy. A tiny sample of blood is taken from your arm by a lab worker. Although there isn't much preparation required, doctors might advise you to abstain from alcohol and vigorous activity 24 hours before the test because both might momentarily elevate SGOT levels. This test can be scheduled at home or in a diagnostic facility. Usually, the results are accessible in a few hours. This test is included in many full-body health packages because it offers important insights into the condition of the muscles and liver.

What is the normal range of SGOT?

Units per litre (U/L) of blood are used to measure the results of the test. Numerous variables, such as general health and other test results, affect the interpretation.

SGOT levels (U/L)	Interpretation
Normal Range (5–40 U/L)	Though reference values differ slightly between laboratories, they are generally thought to fall within the normal range.
Elevated levels	frequently observed in diseases, including hepatitis, liver damage, muscle injuries, or heavy alcohol use.
Low levels (Below 5 U/L )	Rare and typically unimportant, it could be related to a lack of vitamin B6.

Also Read: SGPT Test: Normal Range, Price, Purpose, Procedure & Results

Symptoms that may call for the test 

Several symptoms can be caused by abnormal SGOT (also called AST) values, which are frequently linked to liver issues:

• Most of the time, you might feel weak, exhausted, or lacking in energy.
• A rise in bilirubin can cause yellow eyes or skin.
• The upper right side of your stomach may hurt or feel uncomfortable.
• Pale stool or dark urine may indicate liver problems.
• You can lose your appetite or experience nausea.
• When the body retains fluid, ankles or legs may swell.
• Additionally, some people may experience breathing difficulties, itchy skin, or weight loss.

What do high SGOT levels indicate?

High levels of SGOT say a lot more about your health: 

• They often signal liver impairment caused by fatty liver, alcohol, hepatitis, or drugs.
• SGOT may increase owing to muscle injuries, excessive activity, or muscle diseases.
• Heart issues, particularly heart attacks or inflammation, can cause levels to increase.
• Inflammatory diseases or infections can also raise SGOT.
• Severe liver damage or acute hepatitis is indicated by extremely high levels (1000+ U/L).

Doctors may look for muscle-related problems if SGOT is elevated but SGPT is normal. This test is crucial because SGOT can increase by 4 times in the cases of mild liver inflammation and 10 times in cases of severe liver injury.

How to Reduce High SGOT Levels?

To reduce increased SGOT levels, concentrate on improving liver health through lifestyle modifications and treating any underlying medical conditions. The following are some preventative actions you can take:

• A diet low in processed foods, excessive sugar, and unhealthy fats and high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports liver function. Consider including foods like leafy greens, garlic, turmeric, and green tea that are proven to benefit the liver.
• Water intake helps the liver clear toxins.
• Alcohol can have a major negative impact on liver health; thus, quitting is essential.
• Maintaining a healthy weight and enhancing liver function are two benefits of regular exercise. 
• Keep an eye out for medications that can affect liver enzymes, and consult a physician if you have any worries.
• Both liver recovery and overall health depend on getting seven to nine hours of sleep per night.

Final Thoughts 

A simple yet powerful method for identifying initial signs of liver and muscle strain is this test. It's more crucial than ever to keep an eye on your liver health amid the fast-paced, unhealthy lifestyle of today. Although high SGOT levels don't necessarily indicate a major issue, they should never be disregarded. The majority of liver problems can be treated with early diagnosis, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and prompt medical attention. Keep in mind that your liver functions silently every second; therefore, it is crucial to give it the attention it needs. This test and routine medical examinations can help you maintain your health and avoid issues in the future.

FAQs

1. What is the SGOT test price?

The price of this test varies from lab to lab. At Redcliffe Labs, the SGOT test price is ₹269 only, which is very pocket-friendly. You can get this test done at a discounted price of ₹269 if you have a VIP membership.

2. What is the purpose of the SGOT test?

The test is performed to assess the condition of your muscles and liver. It aids in the early detection of inflammation, muscle damage, and liver damage.

3. What level of SGOT is dangerous?

Levels more than 80 U/L need to be carefully considered. Severe liver damage may be indicated by extremely high levels, such as 300+ U/L, necessitating immediate medical attention.

4. Can elevated SGOT levels go back to normal?

Indeed. When the underlying cause, such as fatty liver, alcoholism, or infection, is addressed, SGOT levels frequently return to normal.