Liver disorders

Why Do I Have High GGT?

Max. D Gray
By Max. D Gray. Updated: January 16, 2017
Why Do I Have High GGT?

Gamma-glutamyl transferase, commonly known as GGT is an enzyme found in kidney, liver and pancreatic cells. When the liver is healthy they stay there. But when the liver is damaged in certain ways, GGT filters into the bloodstream and this makes it possible to diagnose through a simple blood test. Measuring GGT level is a procedure performed on people who are suspected to have a liver or biliary condition. If your GGT level showed to be elevated you will want to know why you have high GGT. At OneHowto we explain the possible causes of a high GGT.

You may also be interested in: What is gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT)
Steps to follow:
1

A normal GGT level ranges from 0-51 IU/L (units per litre). These ranges may vary slightly from one lab to another, so the test results usually always specify the levels within which your GGT must be.

2

If your GGT is high it may be due to various conditions, some directly linked to liver damage or other different diseases that can affect your liver and bile ducts. An elevated GGT is not a value that is mentioned lightly in our test results, so a doctor's evaluation will be crucial to find the causes.

In some cases, high GGT levels may also indicate diseases related to cardiovascular disorders or high blood pressure.

There are some drugs that may also produce an increase in GGT, such as anti-inflammatory medicine that doesn't contain steroids, antibiotics or antifungals.

Why Do I Have High GGT? - Step 2
3

High GGT may occur in people with any of the following conditions:

  • Alcoholism, this condition when in its advanced stage significantly damages the liver.
  • Taking drugs or medication that are toxic to the liver such as NSAID, receptor blockers or anti depressants.
  • Cirrhosis, a condition usually caused by heavy drinking, causing scarring in the liver and increased GGT.
  • Hepatitis C, B or A, another liver condition that alters the levels of this enzyme.
  • Diabetes, in particular, diabetics who do not follow medical advice can suffer liver damage which increases the levels of GGT in their blood.
  • Heart failure.
  • Lung or pancreatic diseases.
  • Conditions that prevent the proper flow of bile into the liver.
  • Other liver conditions such as liver necrosis, ischemia or tumors in this area can cause high GGT.
4

There are many reasons that cause elevated GGT, so it is essential to consult your doctor if you show abnormal levels of this enzyme. Only a specialist can tell you the exact cause of this result and recommend the most appropriate treatment according to your condition.

This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.

If you want to read similar articles to Why Do I Have High GGT?, we recommend you visit our Diseases & secondary effects category.

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5 comments
Rating:
donald schell
My ggt is 393 but I feel very good. I am 83 and do not want to go to hospital. Is there any otc medicine I can take to lower it?
Rating:
Peter Jasper
I will be 88 in July.
I had a too high GGT for 40 hears. Not due to alcohol consumption. Now I have Diabetes II for 20 years..Used Metformine 15 years. Since about 6 years my Dr gave me Insuline. Long term 12 in the morning and 10 over the night Short 5 .Now I notice that I can’t get it down anymore.
Rating:
adam khosa
it is very much helpful and informative.i learnt a lot
Rating:
phumlani mabaso
recommendation my GGT is 120 high and my uric acid is 0.51 high
Rating:
Sandra Fisher
My GGTblood level is 111. I also have hypothyroidism. Could the 2 be related?? Feeling very tired,losing hair, puffy face and joint and muscle aches. I also have R.A.. Thank you
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Why Do I Have High GGT?