Blood tests are one of the quickest ways to understand whats happening inside your body. Whether youre feeling unwell, monitoring an existing condition, or simply checking your health, a blood test can provide clear, actionable insights.
At Pharmacyexprezz in Great Yarmouth, we offer convenient private blood testing with fast appointments and a friendly, professional service.
What is a liver function test (LFT)?
A liver function test (LFT) is a group of blood tests that helps assess how well your liver is working. The liver plays a key role in:
- Filtering toxins from the blood
- Producing bile to help digest fats
- Storing energy (glycogen)
- Processing medicines and alcohol
- Supporting immune function
LFTs dont diagnose a single condition on their own, but they can highlight patterns that suggest liver inflammation, bile duct issues, or reduced liver performance.
What does a liver function test measure?
An LFT panel often includes several markers. Your exact panel may vary, but commonly includes:
- ALT (alanine aminotransferase): Often rises when liver cells are inflamed or damaged
- AST (aspartate aminotransferase): Can rise with liver inflammation (and sometimes muscle injury)
- ALP (alkaline phosphatase): May increase with bile duct obstruction or certain bone conditions
- GGT (gamma-glutamyl transferase): Often used to assess bile duct problems and alcohol-related liver stress
- Bilirubin: A waste product processed by the liver; higher levels can contribute to jaundice
- Albumin: A protein made by the liver; low levels can suggest reduced liver production
- Total protein: Helps assess overall protein balance and liver production
When should you consider a liver function test?
You might consider an LFT if you:
- Feel unusually tired or weak for an extended period
- Have nausea, poor appetite, or unexplained weight changes
- Notice yellowing of the skin/eyes (jaundice)
- Have dark urine or pale stools
- Experience pain or discomfort in the upper right side of your abdomen
- Drink alcohol regularly and want a health check
- Take medications that may affect the liver
- Have a history of fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or gallbladder issues
- Want to monitor a known condition or track lifestyle changes
If symptoms are severe or sudden, seek urgent medical advice.
Common reasons liver markers can be abnormal
Abnormal LFT results can happen for many reasons, including:
- Fatty liver (NAFLD)
- Alcohol-related liver stress
- Viral infections (such as hepatitis)
- Gallbladder or bile duct issues
- Medication effects (including some antibiotics, statins, and supplements)
- Recent intense exercise (can affect some markers)
A single abnormal result doesnt always mean serious disease. Results are best interpreted alongside symptoms, medical history, and sometimes repeat testing.
How to prepare for a liver function test
Preparation depends on your test panel. In many cases, LFTs do not require fasting, but some combined health checks may.
To help ensure accurate results:
- Follow any fasting instructions youre given
- Avoid alcohol for 2448 hours beforehand if possible
- Tell the clinician about medications and supplements
- Stay hydrated
If youre unsure what applies to your booking, ask before your appointment.
What happens during the blood test?
A liver function test is a simple blood draw, usually from your arm. The process typically takes a few minutes.
At Pharmacyexprezz, we aim to keep appointments efficient and comfortable, with minimal waiting.
Understanding your results: what happens next?
Your results may be:
- Within the expected range: Often reassuring, especially if symptoms are mild
- Borderline: May lead to lifestyle advice or a repeat test
- Clearly abnormal: May require follow-up testing or referral to your GP/specialist
Because LFTs are a panel, clinicians often look at the pattern (for example, markers suggesting inflammation vs bile duct blockage) rather than one number alone.
Liver health tips (supportive lifestyle changes)
If your results suggest liver stress, supportive steps may include:
- Reducing alcohol intake
- Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight
- Improving diet quality (more fibre, less ultra-processed foods)
- Managing cholesterol and blood sugar
- Reviewing medications with a clinician
Always follow clinical advice tailored to your situation.
Book a blood test in Great Yarmouth
If youre looking for a private blood test in Great Yarmouthespecially a liver function testPharmacyexprezz offers a convenient option with quick appointments.
Location: Ground floor, Row 60, 183a King Street, Great Yarmouth, NR30 1LS
Phone: 01493 857888
Website: www.pharmacyexprezz.org.uk
FAQs about liver function tests
How long does a liver function test take?
The blood draw itself usually takes only a few minutes.
Do I need to fast for an LFT?
Often no, but it depends on whether your LFT is part of a wider panel. Follow your booking instructions.
Can I drink alcohol before a liver function test?
Alcohol can affect results. If possible, avoid alcohol for 2448 hours before your test.
What if my liver function test is abnormal?
Dont panic. Many causes are temporary or treatable. A clinician may recommend repeat testing, lifestyle changes, or referral depending on the pattern of results and your symptoms.
This article is for general information and does not replace medical advice. If you have concerning symptoms, contact your GP or seek urgent care.