1(800) 615-1067Yes, alcohol consumption can affect blood work results, depending on the specific tests being performed. Here are some examples:
Liver function tests: Alcohol consumption can cause inflammation and damage to the liver, which can affect the results of liver function tests. These tests measure the levels of enzymes and other substances that indicate how well the liver is functioning.
Blood sugar tests: Alcohol consumption can cause a temporary increase in blood sugar levels, which can affect the results of blood sugar tests such as fasting blood glucose or hemoglobin A1c.
Blood lipid tests: Alcohol consumption can cause an increase in triglycerides, a type of blood lipid, which can affect the results of blood lipid tests such as cholesterol or triglyceride levels.
Blood electrolyte tests: Alcohol consumption can cause dehydration, which can affect the balance of electrolytes in the blood. This can affect the results of blood electrolyte tests such as sodium, potassium, and chloride levels.
It is important to inform your healthcare provider of any alcohol consumption prior to blood work to ensure accurate and reliable results. In some cases, you may be asked to refrain from drinking alcohol for a period before the blood work to ensure accurate results.