What is an Ammonia Level Test?

This test measures the level of ammonia in your blood. Ammonia, also referred to as NH3, is a waste product generated when the body breaks down protein. Under normal circumstances, the liver processes ammonia and converts it into urea, which is another waste product. The urea is then eliminated from the body through urine.

If your body cannot properly process or eliminate ammonia, it accumulates in the blood. This can be detected through a serum ammonia level test or an ammonia level blood test. High ammonia levels can cause serious health concerns such as brain damage, unconsciousness, and other severe conditions.

The most common cause of elevated ammonia levels is liver disease, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis. Other causes include kidney failure and genetic disorders.

Ammonia builds up in the blood if your body is unable to adequately digest or eliminate it. An ammonia level blood test or a serum ammonia level test can identify this. Elevated ammonia levels have the potential to result in major health issues, including

Liver diseases like cirrhosis or hepatitis are the most frequent cause of increased ammonia levels. Renal failure and genetic diseases are additional factors.

Other Names of the Ammonia levels Test

What is the Use of the Ammonia Level Test?

An ammonia level test can be used to diagnose and monitor conditions that result in high ammonia levels, such as:

This test can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatments for liver disease or kidney failure, including monitoring ammonia level tests for hepatitis patients.

What is the Need for an Ammonia Level Test?

An ammonia level test is necessary if you have liver disease and experience symptoms of a brain-related issue, including:

In children, the test may be ordered if they show symptoms of Reye syndrome, such as:

For newborns, this test may be needed if they exhibit similar symptoms, which could indicate a urea cycle disorder. Detecting symptoms of high ammonia levels in adults or children is critical for timely treatment.

What Happens During an Ammonia Level Test?

During the ammonia blood test procedure, a healthcare professional will use a small needle to draw blood from a vein in your arm. After the needle is inserted, a small sample of blood will be collected in a vial or test tube. You may feel a slight sting when the needle is inserted or removed. This process usually takes less than five minutes.

In some cases, an arterial blood sample might be required, as it can provide more detailed information about ammonia levels. This type of test is not commonly used, but a syringe may be inserted into an artery at your wrist, elbow crease, or groin for this purpose.

Are There Any Risks Associated with the Test?

A blood test poses little to no risk. You might experience mild discomfort or bruising where the needle was inserted, but it typically goes away quickly.

For infants, a healthcare provider may use a small needle to prick the baby’s heel. A few drops of blood will be collected, and the wound will be covered with a bandage.

What Do the Ammonia Level Test Results Mean?

If your blood ammonia levels are elevated, it may be an indication of:

Normal ammonia levels in blood vary, and the ammonia blood test normal range will depend on the lab performing the test. However, if your results fall outside the ammonia level normal range, additional tests may be needed to determine the exact cause of the elevated ammonia levels. Your treatment plan will be based on your specific diagnosis.

Important Information to Know About an Ammonia Test

Some doctors believe that ammonia plasma test results from arterial blood may provide more accurate information than results from venous blood. If this is the case, a clinician will draw an arterial blood sample from your wrist, elbow crease, or groin area.

If you have any concerns about your test results, consult your doctor for further guidance.