Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver cells of individuals who consume little to no alcohol. It encompasses a spectrum of liver disorders ranging from simple fatty liver (steatosis) to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can progress to liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver failure if left untreated.
– Causes: The exact cause of NAFLD is not fully understood, but it is commonly associated with obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol or triglycerides, metabolic syndrome, and sedentary lifestyle. Genetics, diet, and gut microbiota composition may also play a role in its development.
– Symptoms: NAFLD often does not cause any symptoms in its early stages. However, as the disease progresses, individuals may experience
fatigue,
abdominal discomfort,
enlarged liver,
and elevated liver enzymes detected through blood tests.
– Diagnosis: Diagnosis of NAFLD typically involves a combination of medical history assessment, physical examination, blood tests (such as liver function tests and lipid profile), imaging studies (such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)), and sometimes liver biopsy to evaluate the extent of liver damage and rule out other liver diseases.
– Prevention: Prevention of NAFLD involves adopting a healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, limiting intake of sugary and high-fat foods, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, and achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.
– Treatment: Treatment of NAFLD focuses on managing underlying risk factors and lifestyle modifications to prevent disease progression and complications. This may include weight loss through diet and exercise, control of diabetes and high cholesterol, cessation of alcohol consumption, and medications to manage associated conditions. In advanced stages of NASH with significant liver fibrosis or cirrhosis, liver transplantation may be necessary.
Individuals in Gorakhpur seeking expert care for Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease can consult Dr. Deepak Chandra Srivastava, the best md medicine doctor in Gorakhpur known for his expertise in diagnosing and managing liver disorders. His comprehensive approach to patient care and dedication to staying abreast of the latest advancements in liver medicine ensure optimal treatment outcomes for individuals with NAFLD.