Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a condition affecting the ones who drink no or little alcohol. Also called NAFLD, a characteristic feature of this condition is too much fat build-up in the liver. The condition is very common in obese or overweight people across the globe. If you are suffering from severe forms of NAFLD, it may lead to liver cirrhosis. It is of two types- NAFL or non-alcoholic fatty liver and NASH or non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Not only the causes but also the treatment will differ for both these types of liver diseases. 

Causes of NAFLD

There are a few factors that may cause NAFLD and/or NASH which are mentioned here below. 

• Obesity or excessive weight
• Hyperglycemia or high blood sugar, more common in type 2 diabetes 
• Genetic factors 
• High level of triglycerides and other fats in the blood
• Insulin resistance

Symptoms of NAFLD

Although this condition doesn’t present symptoms in most cases, some may notice the same. 

• Malaise 
• Fatigue 
• Pain in the upper right belly area 
• Itchy skin
• Shortness of breath
• Discomfort in the belly
• Enlarged spleen 
• Jaundice or yellow skin and eyes 
• Ascites or abdominal swelling 
• Swollen legs
• Red palms 
• Spider-like blood vessels beneath the surface of the skin 

Risk factors

You are at an increased risk of suffering from NAFLD if you have one or more of the following diseases. 

• History of obesity
• High cholesterol 
• Insulin resistance 
• Polycystic ovary syndrome 
• Family history of fatty liver disease
• Type 2 diabetes 
• Hypopituitarism 
• Deficiency of growth hormone 
• Obstructive sleep apnea 
• High triglyceride level in blood 
• Metabolic syndrome 
• Hypothyroidism 

People who are above 50 years of age and have certain genetic risk factors may also experience non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Management of NAFLD

Some changes in your lifestyle can help to control the symptoms and reverse the fat buildup due to NAFLD. These changes may include but do not limit to: 

• Keeping your sugar levels under control if you are diabetic 
• Losing weight and maintaining a good BMI 
• Avoiding any intake of alcohol 
• Lowering the levels of triglycerides, cholesterol and other fats in your body 

When you strictly follow the lifestyle changes, the liver damage not only stops but also reverses in many cases. Your doctor may prescribe you any medications if he or she feels your diabetes or blood pressure isn’t in control. 

Sohana Hospital has a knowledgeable team of doctors and healthcare staff who take your care at every step. Whether it is controlling your weight or reversing your symptoms, they ensure good health for you with the treatment.