Doctor's Assessment Included
Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
LDH Blood Test: What Does Lactate Dehydrogenase Tell You?
LDH is a tissue damage marker that athletes should monitor carefully. Intense training causes temporary LDH elevations due to muscle breakdown, making it important to distinguish training-related changes from other causes for optimal recovery management.
What It Measures
Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is present in heart muscle tissue and red blood cells, and in nearly all other tissues. When cells break down, the enzyme is released into your blood. It is involved in energy production, where it helps convert lactate to pyruvate.
This test measures the total amount of the enzyme in your blood. Several forms exist, known as isoenzymes. Because the enzyme is found in so many tissues, a raised result is non-specific and is usually read alongside other markers to help locate the source of tissue damage.
Why It Matters
This enzyme works as a general indicator of tissue damage. An elevated result can be linked to conditions affecting the liver, heart, kidneys, lungs, muscles or blood cells, including haemolytic anaemia and certain cancers.
The result on its own cannot diagnose a specific condition. It is most useful as part of a broader picture, read together with other tests and your symptoms.
Repeated measurements over time may help follow how a condition develops or how it responds to treatment. Your GP can help interpret what the result may mean for you.
When to Test
This test may be considered when tissue damage is suspected but the source is unclear, or as part of a broader set of checks. It is often included in liver panels and general health assessments.
Following the marker over time may also be useful when tracking conditions such as anaemia or recovery after an injury or illness. Your GP can advise whether the test is helpful in your situation.
Symptoms
Low Levels
High Levels
Shortness of breath
Nausea or loss of appetite
Muscle pain or cramping
Unexplained weight loss
Recommendations
Male
Low LDH is generally not concerning and usually does not require follow-up.
Elevated LDH may indicate tissue damage in the liver, heart, or other organs. Consider further evaluation to identify the source.
Female
Low LDH is generally not concerning and usually does not require follow-up.
Elevated LDH may indicate tissue damage in the liver, heart, or other organs. Consider further evaluation to identify the source.
Lifestyle Tips
Because LDH is a non-specific marker, lifestyle recommendations depend on the underlying cause of elevation. In general, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate rest supports overall tissue health.
Avoid excessive physical exertion without adequate recovery, as intense exercise can temporarily elevate LDH. Stay hydrated and consult your healthcare provider if LDH levels remain persistently elevated to identify and address the underlying cause.