Treatment for Fatty Liver Disease in Irvine, Santa Ana, Anaheim, and Westminster, CA
The medical condition known as fatty liver disease is characterized by fat build-up in the liver. While the liver is expected to have a small amount of liver fat, excess fat can lead to inflammation and damage. This is often associated with being overweight and having a slow metabolism. Here at Gastrointestinal and Liver Consultants providers are well-equipped to help you manage this disease before it gets worse.
What Is Fatty Liver Disease?
Fatty liver disease, or as the medical community calls it – hepatic steatosis - is:
Fatty Liver is caused by excess deposition of fat into the liver. This is often associated with being overweight/obese, Diabetes, dyslipidemia (high cholesterol), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and thyroid dysfunction amongst other illnesses
Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease, often called a ‘silent’ disease, has few to no early-stage symptoms. In time, if left untreated, the condition progresses through stages with a potential outcome of fibrosis and potentially to cirrhosis - a severe medical condition that may cause liver failure.
Fatty liver symptoms may include:
- Weakness/fatigue
- No appetite/nausea
- Abdominal discomfort
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal swelling
Fatty Liver Risk Factors
Fatty liver disease's risk factors include:
- Excess Weight/Obesity
- Metabolic syndrome
- Potential genetic factors
- Insulin resistance/Type 2 diabetes
- Hypertension
- High cholesterol/triglycerides
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Unhealthy dietary choices
- Excessive alcohol (for AFLD)
Managing Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease can be managed by lifestyle modifications when detected early. There’s no specific medication to treat fatty liver directly. However, the following changes have been shown to help:
- Even 5-10% of body weight loss can significantly reduce liver fat and related inflammation. A balanced diet and routine activity combination is key to success.
- A nutritious diet rich in vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, fruits, and healthy fats (e.g., from olive oil, nuts, etc.) can be beneficial.
- Limit sugar, refined carbs, and unhealthy fats.
- To reduce liver fat, do at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or activities per week.
- For those with NAFLD, alcohol should be avoided to prevent further damage.
- Appropriate management of conditions like diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure will slow fatty liver disease’s progression.
- While direct medication for fatty liver disease is unavailable, healthcare practitioners may prescribe medications to control underlying conditions that indirectly help.