Elevated liver enzymes are a sign that a person has an inflamed or damaged liver. Many conditions may cause liver inflammation or damage, and some of the most common causes of elevated liver enzymes include:

• Fatty liver disease: This is the most common cause of elevated liver enzymes, and research suggests that 25-51% of people with elevated liver enzymes have this condition.

• Certain medications: Some medications, including some pain relievers and statins, can cause elevated liver enzymes.

• Alcohol: Drinking alcohol can hurt the liver and increase liver enzymes.

• Hepatitis: Hepatitis A, B, and C can cause liver inflammation and elevated liver enzymes.

• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: This is a condition where the liver has more fatty tissue than normal.

• Obesity: Being overweight or obese can contribute to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and elevated liver enzymes.

If a persons blood test results reveal that they have elevated liver enzymes, the doctor will investigate the underlying cause. Once they make a diagnosis, the doctor will recommend suitable treatments. Treatment will depend on what is causing the elevated liver enzymes.