WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease? Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a buildup of fat in your liver from a condition other than alcoholism. What increases my risk for NAFLD? - Health conditions such as obesity, high cholesterol, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, or hepatitis
- Certain medicines, such as chemotherapy, antibiotics, and heart medicines
- Exposure to chemicals that are toxic to the liver, such as pesticides, toluene, or vinyl chloride.
- IV nutrition with total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for longer than 6 weeks
What are the signs and symptoms of NAFLD? NAFLD usually does not cause symptoms. You may have pain in the upper right side of your abdomen or fatigue. How is NAFLD diagnosed? Your healthcare provider will ask about your medical conditions. He may ask about your past and current medicines. He will also check for other conditions that may be causing your symptoms. You may need any of the following tests: - Blood tests will show how well your liver is working. They may also be used to get information about your overall health and find the cause of your NAFLD.
- An ultrasound uses sound waves to show pictures on a monitor. An ultrasound may be done to show if you have increased fat in your liver.
- A CT or MRI scan may be used to take pictures of your liver. You may be given contrast dye to help healthcare providers see your liver better. Tell the healthcare provider if you have ever had an allergic reaction to contrast dye. Do not enter the MRI room with anything metal. Metal can cause serious injury. Tell the healthcare provider if you have any metal in or on your body.
- A liver biopsy is a procedure to remove a small piece of your liver to be tested.
How is NAFLD treated? Medicine is usually not used to treat NAFLD. Medicine may be used to treat other health conditions and manage blood sugar or cholesterol levels. Your medicine may be changed if it is causing your NAFLD. How can I manage NAFLD? - Maintain a healthy weight. Ask your healthcare provider how much you should weigh. Ask him to help you create a weight loss plan if you are overweight.
- Exercise. Aerobic exercise 3 times a week for 20 to 45 minutes can help decrease fat buildup in your liver. Examples are cycling, brisk walking, or jogging. Ask your healthcare provider about the best exercise plan for you.
- Eat healthy foods. Examples are vegetables, fruit, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. Foods low in simple carbohydrates, high fructose corn syrup, and trans fat may help decrease fat buildup in your liver.
- Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol may make NAFLD worse and harm your liver.
When should I contact my healthcare provider? - You have increased pain or swelling in your abdomen.
- You feel more tired than usual.
- You bruise or bleed easily.
- Your skin or the whites of your eyes look yellow.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
When should I seek immediate care? - You have shortness of breath.
- You have trouble thinking clearly or are confused.
- You feel lightheaded or faint.
- You have shaking, chills, and a fever.
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