Main content Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)

    Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT)



    Risks

    There is very little chance of a problem from having blood sample taken from a vein.

    • You may get a small bruise at the site. You can lower the chance of bruising by keeping pressure on the site for several minutes.
    • In rare cases, the vein may become swollen after the blood sample is taken. This problem is called phlebitis. A warm compress can be used several times a day to treat this.
    • Ongoing bleeding can be a problem for people with bleeding disorders. Aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin), and other blood-thinning medicines can make bleeding more likely. If you have bleeding or clotting problems, or if you take blood-thinning medicines, tell your doctor before your blood sample is taken.



    By: Reference Healthwise Staff Last Revised: Reference November 4, 2011
    Medical Review: Reference E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
    Reference Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology


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