Can a damaged liver cause a high triglyceride count?

Question

I recently had a blood test and they told me that my liver enzynes were up meening I had a damaged liver. I just got my cholesterol checked and my cholesteral is normal so is my good cholesteral but my triglycerides are through the roof.

Answer 1

Just because your liver enzymes are elevated doesn't mean you have liver damage - it depends on the particular enzyme; for example, if the enzyme Gamma GT were elevated, this would be an indication that you had consumed a quantity of alcohol within 24-36 hours of the test (GGT is the enzyme that breaks down alcohol). Also a diagnosis of liver damage has to be confirmed with a series of other tests, as well as blood.

You had a lipid profile performed and, you state that both HDL and LDL levels are normal, but triglycerides are through the roof. Had you been drinking at all (alcohol consumption, even in small quantities, can cause this) within 24-36 hours of the test? If so, this could be the cause of the high triglyceride level. This can also be caused by a diet high in saturated and trans-fats, although this would also have an impact on LDL levels.

If you don't mind, why are you asking this on Y!A? Your own doctor will be able to give you far better information and advice.

I may have been top of my biology class in the Human Biology section of the course, but I am far from being a doctor.

Good luck