Ammonia Blood Test

Ammonia Blood Test Overview

Ammonia, when it accumulates, can be harmful to the nervous system. Urea cannot be eliminated from the body when liver and renal issues arise. As a result, the body's ammonia level increases, which causes problems.

The purpose of the ammonia blood test is to determine how much ammonia is present in your blood. This ammonia is typically transformed by the liver into urea, which is subsequently expelled through urine. Ammonia levels in the blood can increase if your liver or kidneys are not working correctly, which can lead to severe illnesses like hepatic encephalopathy.

Why is the Ammonia Blood Test Prescribed?

The main purpose of the ammonia blood test is to evaluate the health of your liver. When a medical professional suspects liver conditions such as cirrhosis, hepatitis or hepatic failure, they often request this test. In babies and infants, elevated ammonia levels can potentially be a sign of metabolic problems, including urea cycle abnormalities. Other than this, the ammonia blood test is prescribed to diagnose-

• Hepatic Encephalopathy: This disorder can be brought on by an accumulation of ammonia in the brain because of liver problems. Hepatic encephalopathy manifests as coma, loss of consciousness, confusion, and memory loss.

• Reye Syndrome: This uncommon ailment has the potential to harm both the liver and the brain. Children under the age of 15 who have a fever brought on by a viral infection are typically affected by this condition.

• Urea Cycle Disorders: A class of uncommon genetic illnesses known as Urea Cycle Disorders (UCDs) occur when the body is unable to produce the enzyme needed to convert ammonia to urea. Parents pass down UCDs to their kids.

Components of Ammonia Blood Test

Elevated ammonia levels are harmful to the nervous system and need to be treated right away. Understanding the blood test for ammonia levels is important for medication.

The body typically has ammonia levels between 15 and 45 µ/dL.

An ammonia test result that is higher than usual may suggest:

1. Bleeding in the intestines, stomach, or other body areas

2. Use of drugs, alcohol, or some medications

3. Smoking

4. Recent intense physical activity

Procedure and Prerequisites

There is no special preparation required to undergo the procedure. However, there are certain things to consider.

1. Avoid smoking and alcohol before the test.

2. Take a break from physically demanding activities for a predetermined amount of time before the exam.

3. Steer clear of drugs like painkillers and diuretics prior to the test.

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