%20(1).png?width=7918&name=HEPATOLOGY-20%20(1)%20(1).png "HEPATOLOGY-20 (1) (1)")
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver. It is commonly associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. NAFLD encompasses a range of liver conditions, from simple fatty liver (steatosis) to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which is a more severe form of the disease.
NAFLD is a prevalent condition worldwide and is considered the most common cause of chronic liver disease. Its prevalence is increasing in parallel with the rising rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
The exact cause of NAFLD is not fully understood, but it is believed to be multifactorial. Insulin resistance, obesity, genetics, dietary factors, sedentary lifestyle, and certain medical conditions contribute to the development of NAFLD.
NAFLD encompasses a spectrum of conditions:
Initially, NAFLD may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience fatigue, pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen, and enlargement of the liver. Symptoms are more likely to be present in advanced stages of the disease or if complications like cirrhosis develop.
Non-Alcoholic fatty liver disease is often diagnosed incidentally during routine blood tests or imaging studies. Blood tests may show elevated liver enzymes, indicating liver cell damage. Imaging techniques such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI can detect fat accumulation in the liver and assess the degree of liver fibrosis. A liver biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of liver inflammation and fibrosis.
The mainstay of NAFLD treatment involves lifestyle modifications. These include weight loss through a combination of diet and exercise, managing associated conditions like diabetes and high cholesterol, and avoiding alcohol and certain medications that can worsen liver damage. In cases of NASH with advanced fibrosis, specific medications targeting liver inflammation and fibrosis may be considered.
The prognosis of NAFLD depends on the stage of the disease and the presence of other risk factors. Simple fatty liver generally has a good prognosis, while NASH with advanced fibrosis or cirrhosis carries a higher risk of liver-related complications. Regular monitoring, lifestyle modifications, and appropriate medical management are crucial in preventing disease progression and managing complications.
Dubai Gastroenterology Clinic - Dr. Rami Hamed Center now provides the leading gastroenterologist in Dubai for Gastric Balloon, Colonoscopy, Colon Cancer Screening, and so on. DRHC offers highly qualified liver specialist doctors in Dubai and a wide range of services on liver failure, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease treatment, alcoholic liver disease treatment, etc.
