H. pylori and liver enzymes: what to know

A positive H. pylori test shows infection, but it does not by itself explain every blood-test change. Liver enzymes are proteins measured in blood that can rise when liver cells or bile-flow pathways are irritated. Medicines, alcohol, viral illnesses, fatty liver disease, gallbladder problems and other conditions can also affect them.

Your clinician may review the exact enzymes, repeat the blood test, ask about medicines and supplements, and examine you. Stomach inflammation, an ulcer or indigestion can occur alongside an unrelated liver finding. Read more about [Helicobacter Pylori Infection](/conditions/helicobacter-pylori-infection/) and [Gastritis](/conditions/gastritis/).

Tell the clinician who ordered the test about every prescription, over-the-counter medicine, herbal product and supplement you use. Follow the recommended H. pylori treatment if infection is confirmed, and complete the course unless your prescriber changes it. Ask whether a follow-up test is needed after treatment and whether the liver results should be repeated.

Avoid drinking alcohol until you understand the result and have received advice, especially if enzymes remain raised. Seek assessment for ongoing upper-abdominal symptoms, which may relate to a [Peptic Ulcer](/conditions/peptic-ulcer/).

Arrange prompt medical advice for yellowing of the skin or eyes, unusually dark urine, pale stools, worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, marked sleepiness or confusion. Vomiting blood or passing black, tar-like stools needs urgent care because it can signal bleeding, including from an ulcer.

Which liver enzymes are raised, and how far from the expected range are they? Could any medicine or supplement explain the result? When should the blood test be repeated? How will you confirm that H. pylori has cleared?