Plasma Ammonia
Plasma Ammonia
- This test is meant to measure the levels of ammonia in the blood
- 12-14 hours of fasting needed
- Ammonia test is used to detect causes or diseases causing abnormal ammonia levels
What is Plasma Ammonia Test?
Ammonia test, also called NH3 test, blood ammonia test, or serum ammonia test, is conducted to measure the ammonia levels in the blood. Ammonia is a waste product generated in our bodies during protein digestion. Bacteria in our gut and cells create ammonia. Ammonia is further processed in our liver and converted into urea, another waste product that can flush through the body with urine. If you are unable to process ammonia, the levels of ammonia buildup in the bloodstream can cause serious health issues.
Reported Parameters
Normal range is 15 to 45 µ/dL (11 to 32 µmol/L)
All The Questions that you might have
- What is Plasma Ammonia Test ?
- What does the Plasma Ammonia test measure?
- Why should I do the Plasma Ammonia test?
- How is the Plasma Ammonia test done?
Ammonia test, also called NH3 test, blood ammonia test, or serum ammonia test, is conducted to measure the ammonia levels in the blood. Ammonia is a waste product generated in our bodies during protein digestion. Bacteria in our gut and cells create ammonia. Ammonia is further processed in our liver and converted into urea, another waste product that can flush through the body with urine. If you are unable to process ammonia, the levels of ammonia buildup in the bloodstream can cause serious health issues.
High ammonia levels in the bloodstream can be a sign of an unhealthy liver. In adults, high ammonia levels can be an indication of liver cirrhosis, encephalopathy, kidney diseases, or even kidney failure. In teens and children
Ammonia test measures the levels of Ammonia in the blood which can signal towards liver or kidney disease and could have serious consequences.
You may need an ammonia test if you are suffering from liver diseases and your symptoms match with a brain disorder. Signs and symptoms include :
- Dizziness
- Excessive sleep
- Mood swings
- Hand tremors
- Confused state of mind
The Ammonia test is a simple blood test done with 12-14 hours of fasting before the test. The blood sample can be taken by the phlebotomist at a pathology lab.
