Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Causes of NAFLD and NASH 🤔

The causes of these conditions are not related to alcohol but are linked to other factors, including:

• Type II Diabetes Mellitus: A common contributor to liver fat accumulation.
• Medications:
  • Amiodarone.
  • Glucocorticoids.
  • Estrogens.
• Overweight and Obesity:
  • Obesity significantly increases the risk of developing fatty liver.

Under a microscope, liver cells in cases of NAFLD and NASH appear similar to those affected by alcohol-induced fatty liver.

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Symptoms of NAFLD 🔍

• Many patients with fatty liver may have no symptoms.
• About 50% of cases report nonspecific symptoms, such as:
  • Discomfort or bloating in the abdomen.
  • A feeling of fullness or pressure in the stomach area.
  • Nausea.
  • Abdominal distension.

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Diagnosis of NAFLD 🩺

Diagnosing NAFLD involves a combination of clinical evaluation and tests, including:

• Gastro-hepatological consultation.
• Abdominal ultrasound.
• Laboratory tests:
  • Complete blood count.
  • Liver function tests: direct and total bilirubin, GGT, SGPT, SGOT, ALP.
  • Lipid profile.
  • Kidney function tests: blood urea nitrogen, creatinine.
  • INR.
  • Blood sugar levels (glucose).
  • Fibrinogen and total protein levels.
  • Albumin
  • Serum iron and ferritin levels.
  • LDH.
  • Hepatitis markers: HBsAg, Anti-HCV.
• Elastography: To assess liver elasticity and detect fibrosis.
• Liver biopsy: Performed only when there is concern for disease progression to fibrosis or cirrhosis.

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Treatment for NAFLD 💊

Treatment is tailored to the individual, depending on the results of the tests. Your doctor will decide whether medications are necessary.

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Prevention of NAFLD 🛡️

Prevention and lifestyle changes are key to managing and reducing the risk of fatty liver disease. The most common examples are:

• Regular consultations with a gastroenterologist: Especially for overweight individuals, even without symptoms. 👨‍⚕️📅
• Reduce or avoid alcohol consumption. 🚫🍺
• Diabetes management: Keeping blood sugar levels under control. 🚫🍰
• Weight loss: Crucial for overweight or obese individuals. 📉
• Daily physical activity: Plays a vital role in prevention. 🏃‍♂️🏋️‍♀️🚴‍♂️
• A balanced diet: Helps manage NAFLD and supports overall health. 🍗🍏🥕
• Medication review: Consult your doctor about any medications you take for other conditions. 👨‍⚕️💊

NAFLD is a manageable condition with early diagnosis and lifestyle adjustments. If you are at risk, schedule regular check-ups and take proactive steps to maintain liver health.

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DISCLAIMER: The information presented on this page has been intentionally condensed and simplified to make it accessible and easier to understand for the general audience. Its purpose is solely to provide basic awareness and education on the topic discussed. It is important to note that this content is not exhaustive and does not replace or serve as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Readers are strongly advised to seek consultations with qualified healthcare professionals or specialists for accurate assessment, personalized guidance, and appropriate medical care. Relying solely on the information provided here, without professional oversight, may lead to misunderstandings or inadequate treatment.