The amylase test, also called amy test, serum amylase, or urine amylase test is a medical test used to measure the level of amylase in the blood and urine. Amylase is a biological enzyme present in our body that aids the digestion of complex sugars like starch. Amylase is mainly present in our salivary gland as ‘salivary amylase’ and the pancreas as ‘pancreatic amylase
The main aim of an amylase test is to check pancreatic health. An abnormal amylase level in blood and urine indicates a pancreatic disorder or infection. The test results can help your doctor understand the health issue and prescribe further treatment.
What is an amylase test used for?
Amylase blood test and amylase urine test are used for two reasons:
Understanding the test results of the amylase test
Both low and high amylase levels are not good indications for your health. Both indicate pancreatic health issues.Â
High amylase levels in blood and urine can cause diseases like:
Low amylase levels in blood and urine indicate:
Why do I need an amylase test?
You may need an amylase test to either monitor your existing pancreatic condition or if you are experiencing the following symptoms:Â
What happens during an amylase test?
You will be asked to give your blood and urine samples. To collect blood samples, the healthcare professional will inject a needle attached to an empty vial into your arm to collect the blood. For urine samples, you first need to clean your genitals with a cleansing pad provided by the healthcare professional. Then, collect one to two ounces of urine in an empty container given to you, as instructed by the professional.
You might need to submit multiple urine samples in a day to get clear, better, and more accurate diagnostic results.Â
What is the normal amylase level?
The normal amylase level in the blood needs to be within 30 to 110 units per liter (U/L). Any deviation from the normal range can be dangerous for your pancreas.Â
Is high amylase bad?
Yes, a high amylase level may be a cause of concern. A high level of amylase indicates blockages, injuries in the pancreatic ducts, and other pancreatic disorders like macroamylasemia, cholecystitis, gastroenteritis, etc.
What causes high amylase levels?
High amylase levels, also called hyperamylasemia, is caused due to the following reasons:
Can anxiety increase amylase?
Yes, during anxiety, the levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and salivary amylase go up. In fact, salivary amylase shoots up more than cortisol itself in a period of anxiety and stress, making it a better indicator of stress. Amylase also serves as an index of soothing and relaxation in a person.
How can I prepare myself for an amylase test?
There is no special preparation required to get ready for the amylase test if a test has been prescribed to you. You simply need to provide your blood and urine samples to the concerned pathological labs and wait for the reports.Â
How long does it take for amylase levels to return to normal?
Depending upon the condition, amylase levels can remain high or low for up to 5 days. However, the concentration can generally get normalized within 24 hours.
If your doctor has prescribed an amylase test, you are just a click away. Book an appointment or get a free second opinion at Yashoda Hospitals today!
Yashoda Hospitals is committed to providing world-class treatment for patients from across the globe. With the unique combination of state-of-the-art technology, intuitive care, and clinical excellence, we are the healthcare destination for thousands of international patients in India.
On the journey to good health, we understand that it is important for you to feel at home. We plan out all aspects of your trip.
Experienced specialists perform non-invasive and minimally invasive surgeries to provide the best treatment for international patients.
Our hospitals are equipped with advanced technology to perform a wide range of procedures and treatments.
We deliver excellence by delivering quick and efficient healthcare and through pioneering research that helps all our future.patients.