DIAGNOSING & TREATING

FATTY LIVER DISEASE

IN A COMFORTABLE AND ACCESSIBLE ENVIRONMENT

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Fatty Liver Disease

The liver plays one of the most critical functions in the human body filtering your blood supply and removing toxins and pathogens. The most common form of liver disease globally is fatty liver disease (also known as ‘metabolic-dysfunction associated fatty liver disease’ [MAFLD] or ‘non-alcoholic fatty liver disease’ [NAFLD]).

Fat deposits within the liver can lead to inflammation and scarring, which over time can result in cirrhosis and impaired liver function.

Fatty Liver symptoms

Initially, fatty liver disease causes no symptoms and is not associated with pain, nausea or food intolerance. It is most often found on abnormal results of blood tests (elevated liver function tests).

If fatty liver disease is discovered too late, then symptoms of advanced liver disease may develop such as tiredness, weight loss, jaundice (yellow discoloration of the skin), and accumulation of fluid in the body.

Factors that can lead to fatty liver disease

  • Obesity
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • High cholesterol
  • High levels of triglycerides
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome
  • Sleep apnea
  • Hormonal disorder (such as an underactive thyroid or pituitary gland)
  • Current or prior heavy alcohol use

Diagnosis and treatment

The experts at Glengarry Gastroenterology have extensive experience in the diagnosis and treatment of fatty liver disease. An initial assessment typically begins with a panel of comprehensive blood tests and imaging of the liver. With this testing, and accurate diagnosis can be established, and the severity of any scarring determined. Effective treatments can include both medications and lifestyle modification, which the doctors at Glengarry Gastroenterology can prescribe after a consideration of the unique needs of each individual.