Everything you want to know about the Amylase test!

You've probably heard of this "Amylase Test." Or maybe a doctor has asked you or someone you know to do this test. So, what is this amylase test? Why is it done? You may have questions like these too. Don't worry, let's talk about this simply and clearly.

What is Amylase? Simply put...

Think about it, the food we eat, especially foods containing carbohydrates like bread, rice, and potatoes, needs to be broken down into small pieces so that our bodies can absorb them. There is a special chemical that helps with that job, an enzyme called amylase. It's like a little worker that helps digest our food.

This enzyme called Amylase is mainly produced in two places in our body. One is the salivary glands in the mouth. The other is the important organ called the pancreas located in the abdomen. Normally, there is a certain amount of this Amylase in our blood and urine. However, if this amount exceeds the prescribed level, it can be a sign of some health problem.

Why is this amylase test done?

If a doctor asks you to take this amylase test, there may be several reasons for it. The main reasons for this test are:

• Check for any problems with the pancreas:
• Pancreatitis: This is the main cause. It is a condition in which the pancreas becomes swollen and painful.
• Gallstones: These stones can block the pancreatic ducts and cause problems.
• Pancreatic Cancer: If there is any suspicion of this serious condition.
• Alcohol use disorder: Excessive alcohol use damages the pancreas.
• Cystic Fibrosis: This is a genetic disease that affects the function of the pancreas.
• Eating disorders: Amylase levels may also change in some eating disorders.
• Various infections: Some infections, such as mumps, can cause the salivary glands to swell, causing amylase levels to rise.

The important thing is that this test alone cannot tell you exactly what the disease is. The doctor will come to a conclusion by comparing this with your symptoms and other test results.

Who is doing this test? How is it done?

There are two types of tests for this. One is the Serum Amylase test, which is done on blood. The other is the Urine Amylase test, which is done on urine.

• Blood test: This is done by a nurse, doctor, or lab technician. A small amount of blood is taken from a vein in your arm.
• Urine test: This requires you to provide a urine sample. It is sent to a lab for testing.

Is there any special preparation before the test?

Yes, there is a little preparation. Your doctor will tell you exactly what to do. Usually:

• Fasting: Sometimes it involves abstaining from food and drink for about 8 to 12 hours. You can only drink water.
• Alcohol: You may be asked to avoid drinking alcohol for 24 hours before the test.
• Medications: You should tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (both prescription and over-the-counter) , as some medications can affect the results of this amylase test. For example:
• Aspirin
• Corticosteroids
• Diuretics (also called water pills)
• Indomethacin (this is an NSAID type of painkiller)
• Opioids (some strong painkillers)
• Oral contraceptives (birth control pills)

This is why it is very important to tell your doctor about the medications you are taking without hiding them.

What happens when you get a blood test? Is it something to be afraid of?

Oh, there's nothing to worry about. This is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes.

1. First, clean a section of the skin on your upper arm.

2. Then, a needle is slowly inserted into the skin. You may feel a slight sensation, like being bitten by a small ant or pricked by a needle. But that only lasts for a few seconds.

3. A little blood is collected in a tube connected to the needle.

4. Then remove the needle, hold the bleeding site with a little pressure, and apply a plaster.

That's it. Very simple, right?

What should you expect when giving a urine sample?

Giving a urine sample is also very easy. Your doctor will tell you to give the sample using the "clean catch" method. This means that the sample is collected cleanly. Sometimes you may also be asked to give a 24-hour urine sample at home. Your doctor will advise you on this.

A typical "clean catch" sample is given as follows:

1. First, wash your hands thoroughly.

2. Then, wipe your genital area with the cleansing pad provided. If you are a man, you should clean the tip of the penis. If you are a woman, you should wipe the folds of skin around the vagina, from front to back.

3. First pass some urine into the toilet, then stop.

4. Now, hold the middle of the urine passage in the special cup provided and collect urine until it reaches the mark on the cup.

5. Wash your hands thoroughly again.

6. Give the cup to the doctor or the lab.

This is also very simple. There is nothing to be ashamed of or afraid of.

What should I do after the test?

• After the blood test: Keep the plaster on your arm for a few hours. You may be told to avoid strenuous exercise for that day only.
• After the urine test : There are no special instructions. You can continue as normal.

Are there any risks with this test?

• Blood test: This is very safe. The risk is very low. The area where the needle was inserted may turn slightly blue. This will heal on its own in two to three days. Very rarely, the vein may swell slightly. If this happens, soaking it in warm water will help.
• Urine test: As far as we know, there are no risks involved.

So, it's better not to be unnecessarily afraid of these tests, right?

How long does it take to get results?

Usually, you can get the results in a day or two. But it can vary slightly from lab to lab. Your doctor will tell you the day you need to come to get the results.

What is the normal range for the amylase test?

This can also vary slightly from lab to lab, so you should compare your value to the "normal range" on your report.

• In a blood sample: A value between 30 U/L and 110 U/L (units per liter) is usually expected.
• Urine sample: A value between 2.6 and 21.2 international units per hour (IU/h).

You don't need to memorize these values. The most important thing is to discuss your results with your doctor.

What does it mean if amylase levels are high or low?

If your amylase level is different from the normal range, either high or low, it could be a sign of a health condition. But don't panic. Your doctor will talk to you about your results and explain what they mean. Your doctor will consider many things, including your current symptoms, your medical history, and the results of other tests you've had.

• High Amylase: This can often indicate a problem with the pancreas, such as pancreatitis. It can also be elevated in conditions such as salivary gland infections, some types of cancer, and intestinal blockages.
• Low Amylase levels: This can indicate a condition such as chronic pancreatitis, liver disease, kidney disease, or cystic fibrosis.

Remember, do not make any decisions based on this test report. Always seek the advice of a doctor.

Finally, things to remember (Take-Home Message)

Okay, so from what we've discussed, I hope you've got a good idea about the Amylase test. In summary:

• Amylase is an enzyme that helps our body digest carbohydrates.
• This test measures the amount of amylase in the blood or urine.
• This mainly helps to diagnose and monitor diseases of the pancreas.
• It is very important to follow the doctor's instructions before the test, especially regarding the medications you will be taking.
• The test is very simple and low risk.
• Once the results are in, talk to your doctor about it and make sure you understand it.

If you have to undergo this test, don't be unnecessarily afraid, and face it as your doctor tells you. I wish you a speedy recovery!

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