Elevated Liver Enzymes and Heart Palpitations

Liver enzymes are proteins measured in a blood test. A raised result can reflect liver irritation, alcohol, medicines, supplements, infection, or another medical problem; the pattern and degree of change matter. Palpitations are sensations such as racing, pounding, fluttering, or skipped beats. Dehydration, fever, low blood sugar, anaemia, thyroid overactivity, stress, caffeine, and an irregular rhythm can trigger them. Hyperthyroidism can also affect liver tests in some people, but the two findings do not prove a single diagnosis.

A clinician may review your symptoms, alcohol and medication history, examine you, repeat liver tests, and check an ECG and blood tests such as a blood count, glucose, and thyroid tests. Do not stop a prescribed medicine without advice.

Arrange a prompt appointment, especially if either finding is new or recurring. Bring the laboratory report, a list of prescribed and over-the-counter medicines, herbal products, supplements, and recent illness details. Note when the palpitations begin, how long they last, whether they follow exertion or meals, and any dizziness or breathlessness. Until assessed, limit stimulants such as energy drinks and excess caffeine, drink fluids normally, and avoid alcohol if it worsens symptoms. Anaemia and iron-deficiency anaemia are examples of conditions a clinician may consider when palpitations occur with tiredness or breathlessness.

Seek emergency help for palpitations with chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, new confusion, or marked weakness. Seek urgent assessment for a fast or irregular heartbeat that does not settle, yellowing of the skin or eyes, severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, black stools, or unusual drowsiness. These warning signs require assessment because they may reflect a serious heart, circulation, or liver problem. Heart failure and atrial fibrillation are examples of diagnoses clinicians may evaluate when symptoms point in that direction.

Ask which liver enzymes are raised and whether the pattern needs repeat testing. Ask whether your medicines or supplements could contribute, whether an ECG or monitoring is appropriate, and which symptoms should prompt same-day care. If you have diabetes, ask how to respond to possible hypoglycaemia during an episode.