Oscar Hancock

Underage drinking is a concern for all parents. It can happen in any family, regardless of income, status, or ethnicity. Many parents are surprised to learn that underage drinking can start earlier than the teenage years.

It’s important for parents to understand the reasons their child may experiment with alcohol. You should also know, how it can become an addiction and how to treat that addiction. Even more important is your role in talking with your child about the dangers of underage drinking. Research shows that the earlier a child starts drinking, the greater the likelihood they will abuse alcohol later in life.

Binge drinking also is dangerous. This is when you drink an excessive amount of alcohol at one time. Binge drinking is commonly tied to alcohol poisoning.

The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommends that children between 12 and 17 years old avoid alcohol. As a reminder, drinking alcohol while under the age of 21 is not legal and is unsafe.

Path to improved health

It’s important to talk to your child (at every age) about the dangers of alcohol. It’s equally important to understand why they drink. Teens often take their first alcoholic drink because they get pressured by their friends or peers. Peer pressure may take the form of bullying. Peers also will tell your child that alcohol makes them feel good and gives them confidence. They may say that there’s no harm in drinking and that everyone drinks. Tell your child to expect peer pressure and encourage them to talk to you when those times occur.

Another reason your child may drink is because they want to be independent. As your child gains independence, it’s important for you to continue to monitor what’s going on in their lives. Stress (school, social, home) may be another reason your child starts drinking. Teach your child ways to cope with the stress they experience at every stage of their life. Children who have suffered abuse or have behavior or mental health problems are at an increased risk for underage drinking.

Talk to your children

Talking with your child helps reduce underage drinking. Parents can influence their child’s attitudes about alcohol and prepare them for the challenges ahead. Start by being a good role model. Research shows that when parents are actively involved in their child’s life, the child is less likely to drink. Being a poor role model can have negative consequences. Children of a parent who binge drinks, for example, are more likely to binge drink. If you are a parent and you drink, do so in moderation. Don’t drink and drive. Don’t keep an excessive amount of alcohol in your house. Other underage drinking topics you should discuss with your child include:

• The dangers of alcohol. Talk about the dangers of underage drinking and alcohol abuse. These can include blackouts, alcohol poisoning, injuries and accidents, risky behavior, negative effects on the brain, and death.
• Coping with peer pressure. Give your children real-life examples of ways to cope with pressure from friends and classmates. Have them practice their responses with you.
• Managing stress. Tell your child that drinking away their stress is not the answer. Teach them ways to cope, such as physical exercise, listening to music, reading, watching a funny movie, writing about their stress in a diary, volunteering to help people or organizations in need, and talking with you or someone else they trust.
• Legal and academic consequences. Explain the long-term impact of underage drinking and drinking and driving (losing your license, having an arrest record). Underage drinking and drinking and driving can lead to losing a spot on a school team or club. It can also mean losing a college scholarship. Even worse, someone could be injured or even killed by a decision to drink and drive.
• Choosing the right friends. Encourage your child to find friends and classmates who share their same goals and lifestyle choices. If they choose to hang around kids who drink, they are more likely to give in to peer pressure and drink as well.

Take preventive steps

Talking with your child about the dangers of alcohol is important. However, talking is not enough. Take preventive steps, such as networking with other parents who share your same thinking and rules about underage drinking. This can include not serving alcohol at parties, and adult supervision when friends are over.

Keep alcohol out of your own home or under lock and key. Establish strict rules and consequences for underage drinking. Some parents create a written agreement or contract with their children. This can include consequences for underage drinking or drinking and driving. Consequences may be a loss of driving privileges, loss of free time, earlier curfews, or paying fines.

Things to consider

Alcohol abuse doesn’t just affect your child. Negative consequences can cause harm to others as well, such as injuring or even killing another person while driving drunk.

Learn the warning signs of alcohol abuse, which can include:

• Mood changes, including depression, anger, and irritability
• Poor grades
• Behavior problems at work or school
• Suddenly choosing a new group of friends, or not introducing their friends to you
• Low energy
• No interest in the activities or recreation they once enjoyed
• Evidence of alcohol use, such as red eyes, the smell of alcohol on your child’s breath, slurred speech, or inability to concentrate

Treatment is available in several forms. It may require individual or group counseling, or an inpatient or residential treatment program (where your child stays until they have completed treatment). There are also outpatient treatment plans (where your child leaves the house for treatment and returns home each day), hospital programs, medicine to reduce alcohol cravings, ongoing recovery support programs, and peer supports. Ask your doctor which one or combined treatment is right for your child.

Questions to ask your doctor

• If I suspect my child has been drinking, how do I know if my child is abusing alcohol or if it is a one-time thing?
• If my child is under 18, can I authorize treatment? What if he or she is over 18?
• How do I have a conversation with my child about alcohol if my spouse drinks in moderation (but every day) and I don’t?
• Is alcoholism hereditary?

Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: About Underage Drinking

Copyright © American Academy of Family Physicians

This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject.

Spirituality is the way you find meaning, hope, comfort, and inner peace in your life. Many people find spirituality through religion. Some people find it through music, art, or a connection with nature. Others find it in their values and principles.

How is spirituality related to health?

No one really knows for sure how spirituality is related to health. However, it seems the body, mind, and spirit are connected. The health of any one of these elements seems to affect the others.

Some research shows a connection between your beliefs and your sense of well being. Positive beliefs, comfort, and strength gained from religion, meditation, and prayer can contribute to well being. It may even promote healing. Improving your spiritual health may not cure an illness, but it may help you feel better. It also may prevent some health problems and help you cope better with illness, stress, or death.

Path to improved health

If you want to improve your spiritual health, you may want to try the following ideas. However, remember that everyone is different. What works for others may not work for you. Do what is comfortable for you.

• Identify the things in your life that give you a sense of inner peace, comfort, strength, love, and connection.
• Set aside time every day to do the things that help you spiritually. These may include doing community service or volunteer work, praying, meditating, singing devotional songs, reading inspirational books, taking nature walks, having quiet time for thinking, doing yoga, playing a sport, or attending religious services.

Things to consider

If your doctor is treating you for an illness, you should consider sharing your spiritual beliefs with him or her. Your spirituality might affect your feelings and thoughts about your medical situation. If you think your spiritual beliefs are affecting your health care decisions, tell your doctor. You should always tell your doctor if your spirituality is preventing you from following his or her recommendations.

When to see a doctor

If you have spiritual beliefs, worries, or concerns that are causing you stress, talk with your family doctor. If your doctor can’t help you with these issues, he or she may be able to suggest someone who can.

Questions for your doctor

• Can my spiritual or religious beliefs impact my health?
• Is it important for me to share with you my spiritual or religious beliefs?

Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Health-Related Quality of Life

Copyright © American Academy of Family Physicians

This information provides a general overview and may not apply to everyone. Talk to your family doctor to find out if this information applies to you and to get more information on this subject.

COVID-19, the illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, is extremely contagious. If you test positive for COVID-19, or suspect that you have it, it is important that you follow recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to avoid spreading the infection.

Path to improved health

You need to isolate from other people if you test positive for COVID-19. Many people who have symptoms of COVID-19 are only mildly ill. Their symptoms can easily be managed with over-the-counter medications.

People who are older, have medical conditions, or have not been vaccinated are at higher risk for severe symptoms. Contact your doctor immediately if your symptoms worsen or you have a hard time breathing.

It is important to note that symptoms of COVID-19 are similar to those of influenza, or the flu. If you feel sick, you might need to take tests for both viruses. Symptoms may appear 2 to 14 days after you’ve been exposed. The range of reported symptoms could change as new variants of the virus are introduced. Current symptoms may include:

• Fever or chills
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Loss of taste or smell
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

It is possible to test positive for COVID-19 and not have any symptoms of illness. You should still follow CDC recommendations and isolate. It’s also possible to have COVID-19 after being vaccinated. This is called a breakthrough infection.

How do I isolate with COVID-19?

During isolation, you should stay at home for at least 5 days except to get medical care. If you live with other people, isolate from them as much as possible. Quarantine in a specific room and use a separate bathroom from the rest of the household, if possible.

Additional isolation procedures to follow include:

• Wear a high-quality mask that covers your mouth and nose around others in your home or in public.
• Do not share personal items or touch shared surfaces.
• Do not travel.

Things to consider

When can I be around other people if I tested positive for COVID-19 and do not have symptoms?

According to the CDC, if you test positive for COVID-19 and continue to have no symptoms, you can end your isolation 5 days after testing positive.

If you need to end your isolation earlier, your doctor may recommend repeat testing. You should have two negative tests in a row to end isolation. The tests should be more than 24 hours apart.

When can I be around other people if I tested positive for COVID-19 and have symptoms?

If you tested positive for COVID-19 and have symptoms, you can be around others when all three of the following criteria are met:

1. You have isolated for at least 5 days.
2. Your COVID-19 symptoms are improving.
3. You have gone 24 hours with no fever. This must be without the use of fever-reducing medications, like ibuprofen.

The CDC says that most people who have symptoms don’t require another COVID-19 test to be around others. You should be able to end isolation without risking getting others sick if you follow the CDC guidelines.

If your symptoms continue to worsen or you are severely ill or immunocompromised, you will need to isolate for at least 10 days. Your doctor can help you determine this.

When to see your doctor

If you suspect you have COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who tested positive, call your doctor to learn where to get tested in your area. Call your doctor immediately if you already tested positive for COVID-19 and your symptoms get worse.

If you have difficulty breathing or other concerning symptoms, call 911 or go to an emergency room.

Resources

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Isolation and Precautions for People with COVID-19

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Symptoms of COVID-19

How to use an inhaler

Each inhaler consists of a small canister of medicine connected to a mouthpiece. The canister is pressurized. As you press down on the canister, it releases a mist of medicine. You breathe that mist into your lungs. It’s important to use your inhaler correctly. Otherwise, your airways will not receive the right amount of medicine. Read and follow all instructions that come with your inhaler.

Steps to correctly use an inhaler:

• Remove the cap and hold the inhaler upright.
• If your doctor recommends, use a spacer (a hollow, plastic chamber) to filter the medicine between the inhaler and your mouth. The chamber protects your throat from irritation from the medicine. Note: Check your insurance plan as some may not cover spacers.
• Stand or sit up straight.
• Shake the inhaler.
• Tilt your head back slightly and breathe out all the way.
• Put the inhaler in your mouth.
• Press down on the inhaler quickly to release the medicine as you start to breathe in slowly.
• Breathe in slowly for 3 to 5 seconds.
• Hold your breath for 10 seconds to allow medicine to go deeply into your lungs.
• Breathe out slowly.
• Repeat puffs as directed by your doctor. Wait 1 minute before taking the second puff.

Some inhalers (such as steroid inhalers) also recommend rinsing your mouth out with water and gargling with water (spit out the water) after use.

These instructions are for a metered-dose inhaler only. Inhaled dry-powder inhalers are used differently. To use a dry powder inhaler, close your mouth tightly around the mouthpiece and breathe in quickly.

Talk to your doctor if you have any questions.

Things to consider

If blood tests indicate your baby is at increased risk of a birth defect, your doctor will follow up with additional tests. These tests include:

• High-resolution ultrasound: This also called a level II ultrasound. It provides more detail about possible birth defects. It can check your baby’s age, brain, spinal cord, kidneys, and heart. It is usually completed between 18 and 22 weeks of your pregnancy.
• Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS): This is an invasive test. Your doctor will collect a tiny piece of the placenta, called chorionic villus. It is checked for chromosomal or genetic disorders. A CVS test is offered to people who received an abnormal result on a first trimester screening test. Also, it is offered to people who could be at higher risk. It is completed between 10 and 12 weeks of pregnancy.
• Amniocentesis: This is an invasive test. Your doctor will collect a small amount of amniotic fluid from the area around the baby. It is tested for certain proteins. This can determine whether your baby has Down syndrome or other genetic problems. It is recommended for women who had an abnormal pregnancy screening blood test. It is completed between 15 and 18 weeks of pregnancy.

Most diagnostic tests are offered to people with higher risk pregnancies. This includes people who are 35 years of age or older, people who have had a previous pregnancy affected by a birth defect, people who have chronic diseases such as lupus, high blood pressure, diabetes, or epilepsy, or people who use certain medications.

If your doctor discovers a birth defect during the pregnancy or at birth, they may refer you to a genetic counselor. This is an expert who can explain the test results, order additional testing, and refer you to a doctor who specializes in high-risk pregnancy or genetic conditions.

Other considerations

• Pregnancy screenings are a personal choice. If your screening is abnormal (positive), do you want to take the next step? This would be a diagnostic test. Will it affect how you handle your pregnancy?
• Some screenings produce false-positives. This means your baby may not actually have a birth defect. A false-positive may or may not affect your choices for additional tests or cause stress. If a screening is normal, it can give you peace of mind.

The lungs are vital organs that are responsible for the inhalation and exhalation of air. They help supply oxygen and remove carbon dioxide from the body. But, due to medical conditions like lung cancer, lung infections, or birth defects, you may have to get one lung removed through surgery (pneumonectomy). But, now the question that arises is can you live with one lung? This guide will help you understand how your body adapts, what challenges to expect, and how to take care of yourself after lung removal. Let’s get started!

Can You Live With One Lung?

Yes, you can live with one lung. After lung removal surgery (called pneumonectomy) due to medical conditions like lung cancer, lung infections, or traumatic injuries, the remaining lung takes the workload by expanding and working harder to meet the body’ need for sufficient oxygen. This adaptability of one lung allows you to breathe, engage in physical activities, and maintain a good quality of life.

However, you may experience some limitations like fatigue, shortness of breath while exercising, reduced exercise capacity, and a high risk of respiratory infection. Life expectancy with one lung will depend on the cause of removal, age, post-surgical recovery, and the overall health of a person. 

How Does the Body Adapt After One Lung Removal?

This is how your body adapts after your one lung is removed:

• Compensatory Lung Expansion: The remaining lung slowly expands to take the workload like inhaling more air, helping maintain enough blood oxygen levels.

• Increased Breathing Efficiency: With time, the body becomes much more efficient in exchanging oxygen, allowing you to perform daily activities without significant restrictions.

• Stronger Respiratory Muscles: The chest and diaphragm muscles work more hard to help with breathing.

• Improved Oxygen Levels in the Blood: The circulatory system of the body becomes highly efficient in supplying oxygen.

• Brain and Body Adaptation: The brain sends signals to the body to modify the activity levels depending on the availability of oxygen.

4 Challenges of Living With One Lung

Though most people lead healthy lives after the lung removal surgery once their bodies adjust to the changes, there come some challenges too such as:

1. Shortness of Breath

• Research reports that shortness of breath is a common issue after surgery in lung cancer patients. However, most individuals can still engage in daily tasks like light jogging, walking, and swimming.

• The degree of breathlessness may vary from one person to another based on their age, physical condition, and overall health.

2. Reduced Exercise Capacity

• A study states that pneumonectomy can cause a reduction in lung capacity. This can make it harder to practice strenuous physical activities like heavy lifting, running, cycling, hiking, and rock climbing.

• This happens due to shortness of breath and reduced oxygen intake.

• However, rehabilitation and training can help regain stamina slowly, allowing you to perform physical activities at a qualified level.

3. Higher Risk of Respiratory Infections

• With one lung, the ability of the body to combat respiratory infections like pneumonia may be reduced. 

• Hence, it becomes more crucial to maintain good respiratory health by avoiding smoking and getting vaccinations for flu and pneumonia.

4. Emotional & Mental Health Impact

• Concerns about living a normal life, coping with the loss of body parts, and practicing physical activities after a lung surgery can put stress on the person very heavily. This can lead to health issues such as anxiety, depression, or fear in them.

• In these cases, support from mental health professionals, family members, and friends can help a person handle the situation and regain their confidence.

Warning Signs Your One Lung May Not Be Functioning Well

An effective approach to prevent respiratory-related issues from rising is familiarizing yourself with warning signs indicating poor lung function:

• Shortness of breath

• Chronic cough

• Unexplained fatigue

• Trouble breathing

• Increased mucus production

• Tightness while breathing

• Less stamina

• Persistent symptoms that do not go away

If you or your loved one is living with only one lung or have any conditions that can raise the chances of needing a lung removal surgery, see a thoracic surgeon or pulmonologist to know how to improve your respiratory health. 

Why Would You Need a Lung Removed?

These factors are the reason why you need a lung surgery (Pneumonectomy):

• Lung Cancer: To get the tumor removed and prevent the risk of spread of cancer.

• Severe Lung Infections: Health conditions such as chronic pneumonia or tuberculosis might require lung removal to prevent the spread of infection.

• Severe Trauma or Injury: For severe injuries or damage to the lungs in case of accidents or stab wounds, the providers may suggest lung removal surgery.

• Congenital (Birth) Defects: Some individuals have lung abnormalities since birth that need to be surgically removed as they affect the function of the lungs.

• Chronic Lung Diseases: In rare cases, people with conditions like severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or bronchiectasis may need pneumonectomy to reduce symptoms and enhance quality of life. 

Understanding Pneumonectomy (Lung Removal Surgery)

A pneumonectomy is a surgical procedure that a thoracic surgeon performs to remove one entire damaged lung. It is conducted to treat medical conditions like lung cancer, severe lung infections, traumatic injuries, or other lung diseases.

Procedure of Pneumonectomy: How the Surgery Works

• Pre-Surgery Evaluation: The healthcare providers perform lung function tests, X-rays, CT scans, and overall health assessment to check lung health and function.

• Anesthesia Administration: The providers will give general anesthesia to ensure you’re unconscious and experience pain-free surgery.

• Incision: A thoracic surgeon makes one incision on the side of your chest to get access to the lung.

• Lung Removal: The surgeon then carefully detaches the damaged lung from the blood vessels, bronchus, and surrounding tissues.

• Sealing and Closing: Next, the provider seals the bronchial stump to prevent air leaks, and closes the blood vessels to prevent bleeding.

• Drain Placement: A chest tube might be placed to get rid of excess air or fluid.

• Surgical Closure: The surgeon stitches the chest incision.

After a Pneumonectomy: Recovery Process

• Hospital Recovery: A hospital stay for about 5 to 10 days for pain management and proper monitoring of breathing, heart rate, oxygen levels, and blood pressure. The full recovery will take a few weeks or months.

• Working with Respiratory Therapists: Respiratory therapists teach you specific breathing exercises to perform many times a day. This will help strengthen your breathing and alleviate accumulated fluid from the surgery.

Risks & Complications of Pneumonectomy:

Most people do well after pneumonectomy, but some may experience these possible complications:

• Blood clot in the lung

• Pneumonia

• Respiratory failure

• Too much bleeding

• Breathing difficulties.

• Complications from anesthesia

• Abnormal heart rhythms

• Low blood flow to the heart

• If you experience these complications, seek medical attention immediately. 

10 Expert Tips for Staying Healthy with One Lung

Follow these tips to live healthily with one lung:

1. Practice Deep Breathing: Aids in strengthening the remaining lungs and boosts oxygen intake.

2. Stay Active: Practice light exercises such as walking or swimming to improve lung function.

3. Avoid Smoking and Pollutants: Avoiding smoke, chemicals, and pollution can keep your lungs protected from damage.

4. Follow a Healthy Diet: Consume antioxidant-rich foods like fruits and veggies to protect from infections and vitamin C-rich foods like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and citrus fruits for faster healing. Avoid salty foods as they retain water.

5. Stay Hydrated: Drink a lot of water to clear the airways and prevent the risk of mucus accumulation.

6. Get Vaccinated: Get vaccination for flu and pneumonia to keep yourself protected from these infections as they affect the lungs.

7. Practice Breathing Techniques: Engage in pursed-lip breathing technique to manage your breathlessness.

8. Manage Stress: By activating the “fight-or-flight” response of the body, stress can worsen breathing issues. So, practice meditation, yoga, or relaxation exercises.

9. Monitor Breathing Changes: If you notice persistent cough or extreme shortness of breath, consult a doctor.

10. Get Regular Check-ups: Always follow up with a doctor to ensure proper functioning of your lungs.

Can Your Lung Regenerate?

No, there is no possibility of the lung regenerating or growing back if it is completely removed. However, other organs around the lungs can shift to the place where your lung was once. This is the normal way of the body adapting after surgery. Maintaining the health of the lungs is a vital part of living well. So, eat healthily, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, and follow up regularly with your doctor. 

Final Thoughts: Living Well With One Lung

So, can you live with one lung? As we learned in the article earlier, Yes, it’s possible to live with one lung. However, there might be some physical limitations such as reduced exercise capacity, shortness of breath, or fatigue, but with a healthy lifestyle, physical therapy, and proper medical care, you can maintain a good quality of life. Also, eat a balanced diet, stay active, avoid smoke, get vaccinations, and go for regular health check-ups.

The human body has the ability to bounce back, showing that with one lung, life can proceed!

Frequently Asked Questions

Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in liver function. High GGT levels can indicate liver disease, alcohol consumption, certain medication side effects, or metabolic issues. But exactly what level of GGT is dangerous?

This guide will explain when high GGT levels become concerning, possible causes, symptoms, and how to lower them naturally. Let’s start!

What Level of GGT is Dangerous?

A GGT level above 50 U/L (units per liter) is generally considered high and may indicate liver problems or other health concerns. However, this range can slightly vary depending on the laboratory reference range.

According to the National Library of Medicine, the normal GGT range is 6–70 U/L for men and 6–50 U/L for women.

When Is High GGT a Serious Concern?

If your GGT levels exceed 50 U/L, it may be a sign of:

• Liver cirrhosis– Scarring of the liver due to long-term damage

• Hepatitis–Liver inflammation, often caused by viruses or alcohol

• Pancreatic disease– Inflammation or dysfunction in the pancreas

• Liver cancer – Tumor growth in the liver

• Bile duct cancer– A rare but serious condition affecting the bile ducts

If your GGT level is above 50 U/L, especially with symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal pain, consult a doctor immediately.

6 Causes of High GGT Levels

Several factors can contribute to elevated GGT levels, including:

1. Liver Disease

Liver conditions such as cirrhosis, hepatitis, or fatty liver disease can significantly increase GGT levels.

2. Alcohol  Consumption

Excessive alcohol intake is a major cause of high GGT. Even in the absence of liver disease, chronic drinking can elevate GGT levels.

3. Medications

Certain drugs can increase GGT, including:

• Cholesterol-lowering statins

• Anticonvulsants (for epilepsy)

4. Heart Disease

Research reports that increased GGT levels are linked with a high risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) like cardiac arrhythmias, coronary heart disease, heart failure, arterial hypertension, stroke, and CVD-associated mortality (death).

5. Metabolic Disorders

Obesity and insulin resistance are metabolic conditions that can also contribute to high GGT levels by causing chronic oxidative stress and inflammation which cause damage to liver cells and trigger GGT production.

6. Smoking

A study shows that daily smoking can gradually increase GGT levels through oxidative stress and inflammation.  

Symptoms of High GGT Levels

High GGT levels may not always cause symptoms, but when they do, they can include:

Note: If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult the healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. 

When to See a Doctor?

If your Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) level exceeds above 50 U/L, it is suggested to see a doctor, especially if you have the following symptoms:

• Jaundice

• Abdominal pain

• Nausea

• Unexplained fatigue

A GGT blood test can help determine the exact cause of elevated levels and guide further treatment.

GGT Blood Test: What You Need to Know

Purpose of the GGT Blood Test:

• Detects liver damage & bile duct problems.

• Helps find out alcohol-associated liver disease.

• Evaluate liver function in people living with liver issues.

• Diagnosis of pancreatitis (inflammation in pancreas) and gallbladder disease.

When Is a GGT Test Ordered?

Your doctor may recommend a GGT test if you have:

• Symptoms of liver disease like dark urine, abdominal pain, jaundice, fatigue, or nausea.

• Unexplained high ALP (alkaline phosphatase) levels.

• Concerns about liver function due to medications

• A history of heavy alcohol consumption

How to Prepare for the Test?

The procedure of GGT Blood Test

To get a blood sample:

• The provider will clean and disinfect one area of your arm.

• They will then insert a needle into the vein to take blood and collect it in a test tube.

• Next, they will remove the needle and keep a gauze or cotton ball in the area to prevent bleeding.

• This procedure takes about 5 minutes.

Interpreting GGT Results

• Slightly High (50–100 U/L): This may be due to alcohol, fatty liver, or medications

• Moderately High (100–300 U/L): Could indicate liver disease or bile duct issues

• Extremely High (Above 300 U/L): This might indicate severe liver damage, cancer, or bile duct blockage.

In Case of High GGT Levels

• Further tests such as ultrasound, liver biopsy, or MRI may be needed.

• Lifestyle changes such as reducing alcohol intake, improving diet, and exercising regularly are advised to lower GGT levels.

• Treatment like medications to manage liver issues such as cirrhosis or hepatitis or liver transplantation in case of severe liver damage. 

How to Reduce GGT Levels Naturally?

Follow these strategies to reduce GGT levels and maintain healthy levels:

• Limit or quit alcohol: Excessive alcohol is a leading cause of high GGT. Cutting back or quitting can significantly lower levels within weeks.

• Consume a healthy diet: Add liver-friendly foods like brown rice, blueberries, mustard greens, watermelon, nuts, broccoli, etc. to your diet. Avoid saturated fat-containing foods as they can increase the risk of fatty liver disease.

• Exercise regularly: Practice exercise like brisk walking regularly for about 30 minutes to support your liver health.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to ease liver function and promote overall health.

• Drink coffee: Research shows coffee consumption (3–4 cups daily) helps reduce GGT levels, especially in heavy drinkers.

• Take vitamin & mineral supplements: Vitamin C & Magnesium support liver detoxification and may lower GGT levels. (Consult your doctor before taking supplements.)

• Address the underlying health issues: If conditions like hepatitis, diabetes, pancreatitis, or fatty liver disease are the cause of high GGT, seek medical treatment to manage them effectively.

Final Thoughts

So, what level of GGT is dangerous? A GGT level above 50 U/L can be a warning sign of liver disease, alcohol-related damage, or metabolic issues. While high GGT levels alone don’t confirm a disease, they should not be ignored.

If you suspect any symptoms of high GGT levels, seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. Make lifestyle changes like reducing alcohol, eating a healthy diet, and staying active to support liver health. Early detection and proper management can prevent serious liver complications.

Have high GGT levels? Don’t wait—schedule a checkup today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Pregnancy comes with many changes. Some are expected, while others catch you off guard. One common issue many women face is yeast infection during pregnancy. It happens more often than at any other time, especially in the second trimester.

Yeast infections cause discomfort. They can bring itching, burning, and unusual discharge. But the real concern? They can be harder to manage while pregnant. The good news is that they do not harm the baby, though they should be treated right away.

Let’s explore why yeast infections happen, how to recognize them, and the best pregnancy-safe treatments to get fast relief.

Why Yeast Infections Are More Common During Pregnancy

A yeast infection happens when Candida, a type of fungus, grows too much. Normally, the body keeps yeast in check. But during pregnancy, estrogen levels in your body increase which can disturb the normal balance of yeast and bacteria in the vagina. This may allow the yeast to overgrow. Most yeast infections during pregnancy result from the candida albicans fungus. Candida glabrata and candida tropicalis are the two other kinds of yeast that can also cause them.

What Causes Yeast Overgrowth During Pregnancy?

• Hormones – Pregnancy changes hormone levels, which affects the balance of bacteria and yeast.

• Extra Sugar – Vaginal secretions contain more sugar when pregnant, and yeast feeds on sugar.

• Weaker Immunity – The body focuses on protecting the baby, making it easier for infections to take hold.

• Antibiotics – If you take antibiotics during pregnancy, they can kill good bacteria that keep yeast under control.

These changes create the perfect setup for yeast infections. That’s why so many pregnant women experience them at least once.

Symptoms of a Yeast Infection During Pregnancy

The signs of a yeast infection during pregnancy are hard to ignore. They may start mild but often get worse.

Common symptoms include:

• Thick, white discharge that looks like cottage cheese

• Itching and irritation around the vagina

• Redness and swelling of vaginal tissue

• A burning sensation during urination or sex

• Increased vaginal discharge with a yeasty smell

When to See a Doctor? If you have severe symptoms, persistent discomfort, or if it’s your first yeast infection, see your doctor for proper diagnosis.

What If It’s Not a Yeast Infection?

Other conditions can mimic yeast infections. If your symptoms don’t match a typical yeast infection, another condition could be the cause. 

If your infection does not improve with yeast treatments, see your doctor again.

Treating a Yeast Infection During Pregnancy: The Safe Ways

Treating a yeast infection while pregnant requires extra caution, as not all antifungals are safe.

Pregnancy-Safe Treatment Options

• Antifungal Vaginal creams and suppositories – These are the first choice for treatment. Options include clotrimazole and miconazole.

• Starch-free drying powder – This helps keep the area dry and prevent further irritation.

What to Avoid

• Oral antifungal medications – Diflucan (fluconazole) is not recommended. It may affect fetal development.

• Strong over-the-counter treatments – Always check with your doctor before using any medication.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

Yeast infections may last longer when pregnant. Expect treatment to take 10-14 days before symptoms go away. If symptoms persist or worsen, check with your doctor.

Natural Remedies: Safe & Unsafe Options

Many pregnant women look for home remedies to avoid medications. Some are safe, while others can be harmful.

Safe Home Remedies for Yeast Infections in Pregnancy

• Probiotic Foods – Yogurt with lactobacillus acidophilus can help restore vaginal pH balance.

• Coconut Oil – Has mild antifungal properties; apply a thin layer externally.

Home Remedies to Avoid

• Tea Tree Oil – Too strong for sensitive vaginal tissues.

• Apple Cider Vinegar Baths – Can cause irritation and disrupt pH balance.

You should always check with your doctor before trying home remedies.

How to Prevent Yeast Infections While Pregnant

Preventing a yeast infection during pregnancy is easier since treating infections can take time. Small lifestyle changes can help keep yeast under control.

1. Good Hygiene Habits

• Wear cotton underwear. It lets air flow and keeps moisture away.

• Change out of damp clothes fast. Sitting in wet swimsuits or sweaty gym clothes makes yeast grow.

• Avoid scented hygiene products. No perfumed soaps, sprays, or wipes near your vagina.

• Wipe front to back. This keeps bacteria from spreading.

2. Dietary Changes

• Limit sugar intake. Yeast loves sugar, and too much in the diet may make infections more frequent.

• Eat probiotic foods. Yogurt with lactobacillus acidophilus can help maintain a healthy vaginal balance.

3. Get Enough Rest

A strong immune system can fight off infections faster. Good sleep and stress management help prevent yeast from taking over.

Can a Yeast Infection Affect the Baby?

Yeast infections do not harm the baby in the womb. But they can spread during delivery.

What Happens If a Baby Gets a Yeast Infection?

• Yeast infections can cause thrush, a fungal infection in the baby’s mouth.

• Thrush appears as white patches inside the baby’s mouth.

• Babies may become fussy and struggle to feed.

Thrush is treated with antifungal drops prescribed by a pediatrician.

In the U.S., about 37% of newborns develop thrush in the first few months. If a mother has an untreated yeast infection at birth, the risk increases.

Conclusion: Managing Yeast Infections in Pregnancy

Yeast infection during pregnancy is uncomfortable but treatable. It happens because of hormone shifts, sugar levels, and immune changes. While it does not harm the baby, it should be treated fast.

If you experience symptoms, talk to your doctor. Safe treatments include vaginal creams and suppositories. Avoid oral antifungals and harsh over-the-counter products.

Taking preventative steps can help avoid repeat infections. If this article helped you share it with other moms-to-be. They may need this info, too!

Read Also: How Much Water To Drink To Flush Out Yeast Infection?

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