Hello,
Raised AST as compared to ALT may be indicative of
heart disease. If the heart is under stress or there's damage to heart tissue, AST can increase. Alcoholic fatty liver disease is a common cause of elevated AST and ALT in older adults, it may be related to obesity, diabetes, or
metabolic syndrome. Chronic alcohol consumption AST is often more elevated than ALT in alcohol-related liver issues.
Hepatitis and
gall bladder disease or obstruction can lead to
elevated liver enzymes. Side effects of certain medications prescribed like statins, antibiotics, and blood pressure can also cause raised live enzymes. In an elderly person, it's important to evaluate the context of the elevated liver enzymes. Consult a GP / health care provider for further evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment options.
Get imaging studies (e.g., ultrasound, CT scan) done to assess the liver and
gallbladder. Get
lipid profile and cardiac function tests and imaging tests done to assess the heart. Stay away from oily, fried food. Take boiled food with a dash of olive oil for a couple of months. Take boiled water after cooling it. Do regular walking and maintain healthy weight.
Do not take refined flour, full fat dairy products, red meat. Take lean meat, well-cooked whole grains, boiled vegetables, fruits, berries. After strict diet control, walking and maintaining healthy lifestyle get repeat liver function tests (e.g.,
alkaline phosphatase, bilirubin, albumin), testing for hepatitis viruses or autoimmune liver disease done.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Nupur K, General & Family Physician