An AST test is prescribed in situations where a doctor wants to assess liver, heart, or muscle health. It may be part of a preventive health check or may be requested when specific symptoms occur.

Common situations that warrant an AST test:

• Preventive health check.
• Pain or discomfort in the chest.
• Pain in the upper right part of the abdomen.
• Symptoms of liver problems (nausea, vomiting).
• Signs of jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
• Follow-up treatment for liver or heart disease.
• Unexplained fatigue, weakness, or muscle pain.
• Excessive alcohol consumption or suspicion of liver damage.

The AST test is carried out from a blood test. A healthcare professional takes a blood sample, usually from the arm, to analyze the levels of AST in the serum.

The AST test is often included in the following exams:

1. Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP) : Evaluates multiple markers of liver and kidney health, including AST.
2. Liver Function Test (LFT) : Specifically designed to analyze liver health by measuring enzymes like AST and ALT.

Preparations for an AST Test:

• Fasting : Do not eat for 8 hours before the test (water is allowed).
• Avoid alcohol : Do not consume alcohol at least 24 hours before the test.
• Physical activity : Avoid strenuous exercise 30 minutes before the test.
• Stress : Remain calm to avoid temporary changes in results.
• No tobacco : Do not smoke in the 30 minutes prior to the test.

Normal AST levels vary depending on age, gender, and health status. Here are the standard values:

Men:

• Under 13:8—60 U/L
• 14 years and over: 8—48 U/L

Women:

• Under 13:8—50 U/L
• 14 years and over: 8—43 U/L

Pregnant women:

• 1st quarter : 3—23 U/L
• 2nd quarter : 3—33 U/L
• 3rd quarter : 4—32 U/L

Note: Normal measurement units and ranges may vary depending on the laboratory and the methods used.

High levels of AST often indicate damage to the liver, heart, or muscles, causing AST to be released into the bloodstream.

Common causes of high AST levels:

• Liver diseases : Hepatitis, cirrhosis, hepatic steatosis.
• Heart attack : Heart muscle damage.
• Intense physical activity : Causes a temporary breakdown of the muscles.
• Obesity : May contribute to fatty liver disease.
• Alcohol abuse : Damages the liver.
• Extensive burns or trauma : Release AST due to tissue destruction.
• Pancreatitis : Inflammation of the pancreas.

Recommendations for Managing High Levels:

1. Reduce alcohol consumption : Protects the liver against damage.
2. Adopt a balanced diet : Choose vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins.
3. Avoid excessive exercise : Practice moderate activity to avoid muscle tension.
4. Maintaining a healthy weight : Reduces the risk of liver problems.
5. Consult a health professional : Perform additional tests to identify and treat the underlying cause.

Although rare, low levels of AST can also be observed and signal specific problems:

• Severe liver damage : Reduced AST production in case of advanced cirrhosis.
• Malnutrition : Prolonged nutritional deficiencies affect enzyme production.
• Aging : Enzyme levels naturally decrease with age.
• Metabolic disorders : Some rare diseases can reduce AST production.

Recommendations for Managing Low Levels:

1. Improving nutrition : Eat a balanced diet that includes protein to support enzyme production.
2. Consult a doctor : Diagnosing and managing underlying conditions.
3. Supplements : If necessary, supplements may be recommended to correct deficiencies.

If your AST levels are abnormal, it is important to see a specialist according to the possible cause:

• Hepatologist : Specialist in liver diseases.
• Cardiologist : If heart problems are suspected.
• Endocrinologist : In case of metabolic disorders.
• Gastroenterologist : For conditions related to the pancreas or the digestive system.
• General practitioner : For regular follow-up or in case of less serious problems.

Monitoring your AST levels and acting quickly can help keep your vital organs healthy.