Q. How often should I get a liver function test?
Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.
The recommended frequency for a liver function test (LFT) depends on your age and risk factors for liver disease.
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For healthy adults under 40 with no risk factors: LFTs are generally not recommended as part of a routine health check.
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For healthy adults 40 and over: LFTs may be included in routine health checks every 6-12 months.
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For people with risk factors: People with certain conditions or who engage in certain activities that increase their risk of liver disease may need more frequent testing. These risk factors include:
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Heavy alcohol use
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Obesity
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Type 2 diabetes
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Hepatitis
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Family history of liver disease
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Taking medications that can damage the liver
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If you are concerned about your liver health, talk to your doctor about whether you should get an LFT. They can assess your individual risk factors and recommend an appropriate testing schedule.
Here are some of the signs and symptoms of liver disease that may warrant an LFT:
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Fatigue
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Nausea and vomiting
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Loss of appetite
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Abdominal pain
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Dark urine
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Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes)
Early detection and treatment of liver disease can improve your chances of a full recovery.
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