Lactate Dehydrogenase Test Overview and Procedure
Discover the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) test, its purpose, procedure, and role in diagnosing tissue damage and monitoring various health conditions.
If you or a loved one has been advised to take a Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Test, you might be wondering what it is and why it’s needed. Don’t worry—this guide will explain everything in simple terms, from what LDH is to how the test is done and what the results mean.
What is Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH)?
Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) is an enzyme found in almost all cells of your body, including the heart, liver, muscles, kidneys, and red blood cells. It plays a crucial role in energy production by helping convert sugar into energy.
When cells are damaged or destroyed due to injury, disease, or infection, LDH is released into the bloodstream. A high LDH level in your blood can indicate tissue damage or disease.
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Why is the LDH Test Done?
Your doctor may recommend an LDH test to:
• Check for tissue damage (e.g., after a heart attack, liver disease, or muscle injury).
• Monitor conditions like anemia, infections, or cancer.
• Help diagnose certain diseases (e.g., hemolytic anemia, lung diseases, or muscle disorders).
• Track the progress of treatment (e.g., chemotherapy for cancer).
Symptoms That May Require an LDH Test
If you experience any of the following, your doctor might suggest an LDH test:
• Unexplained fatigue or weakness
• Muscle pain or cramps
• Yellowing of skin (jaundice)
• Shortness of breath (possible lung or heart issues)
• Dark urine (could indicate muscle or liver damage)
How is the LDH Test Performed?
The LDH test is a simple blood test with minimal discomfort. Here’s what to expect:
Before the Test:
• Fasting is usually not required, but follow your doctor’s instructions.
• Inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking, as some can affect LDH levels.
During the Test:
1. A healthcare professional will clean your arm with an antiseptic.
2. A small needle will be inserted into a vein to draw a blood sample.
3. The blood is collected in a tube and sent to a lab for analysis.
4. The process takes just a few minutes, and you can resume normal activities afterward.
After the Test:
• You might feel slight bruising or soreness at the needle site, which goes away quickly.
• Results are usually available within 24-48 hours, depending on the lab.
Understanding Your LDH Test Results
LDH levels are measured in units per liter (U/L). Normal ranges can vary slightly by lab, but generally:
• Adults: 140–280 U/L
• Children & Teens: Slightly higher levels are normal
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What Does High LDH Mean?
Elevated LDH levels suggest tissue damage or disease, such as:
• Heart attack (damaged heart muscle releases LDH)
• Liver disease (hepatitis, cirrhosis)
• Muscle injury (trauma, intense exercise)
• Hemolytic anemia (red blood cell destruction)
• Infections (like pneumonia or meningitis)
• Certain cancers (lymphoma, leukemia)
What Does Low LDH Mean?
Low LDH levels are rare but may occur due to:
• Excessive vitamin C intake
• Genetic conditions affecting LDH production
Your doctor will interpret your results based on your symptoms and other tests.
How to Manage Abnormal LDH Levels?
If your LDH levels are high, your doctor will investigate the underlying cause. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include:
• Medications (for infections, heart disease, or liver conditions)
• Lifestyle changes (healthy diet, exercise, quitting smoking)
• Monitoring (regular blood tests to track progress)
Tips for Better Health:
• Eat a balanced diet (fruits, vegetables, lean proteins)
• Stay hydrated (helps flush toxins)
• Exercise moderately (avoid excessive strain if muscle damage is suspected)
• Avoid alcohol & smoking (protects liver and heart health)
When to See a Doctor?
If you have persistent symptoms like:
• Severe fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent pain (chest, muscles, abdomen)
• Yellow skin/eyes (jaundice)
Consult a doctor immediately. Early diagnosis can help manage conditions effectively.
Book Your LDH Test with Apollo 24|7
If your doctor has recommended an LDH test, you can easily book it through Apollo 24|7 for a hassle-free experience.
Why choose Apollo 24|7?
• Accurate & fast results
• Home sample collection available
• Expert doctors for consultation
Final Thoughts
The Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH) Test is a simple yet important blood test that helps detect tissue damage and various health conditions. If your results are abnormal, don’t panic—your doctor will guide you on the next steps. Stay proactive about your health, follow medical advice, and make healthy lifestyle choices. If you need an LDH test, Apollo 24|7 makes it easy and convenient.
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Consult a Top Specialist
Dr. Jawwad Mohammed Kaleem
General Practitioner
4 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Shesham Srinidhi
General Practitioner
5 Years • MD(physician)
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Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
(150+ Patients)
Dr. Siri Nallapu
General Practitioner
5 Years • MBBS
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Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. J T Hema Pratima
General Practitioner
9 Years • MBBS
Chennai
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Tamilnadu, Chennai
(325+ Patients)
Dr Divya Lekha Gunta
General Practitioner
10 Years • MBBS, MD (Pathology)
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Consult a Top Specialist
Dr. Jawwad Mohammed Kaleem
General Practitioner
4 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. Shesham Srinidhi
General Practitioner
5 Years • MD(physician)
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
(150+ Patients)
Dr. Siri Nallapu
General Practitioner
5 Years • MBBS
Hyderabad
Apollo 24|7 Clinic, Hyderabad
Dr. J T Hema Pratima
General Practitioner
9 Years • MBBS
Chennai
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Tamilnadu, Chennai
(325+ Patients)
Dr Divya Lekha Gunta
General Practitioner
10 Years • MBBS, MD (Pathology)
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
