Fatty Liver Disease in Washington
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Find a ProviderWhat is fatty liver disease?
There are two major types of fatty liver disease: non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and alcoholic steatohepatitis (alcoholic fatty liver disease). Fatty liver disease is a disorder where fat bunches up in the liver cells. This could cause liver inflammation, which can, in turn, evolve into scarring and permanent damage. If the severity of the disease increases or is left untreated, FLD can develop into liver cirrhosis, medically known as hepatic cirrhosis, and ultimately liver failure.
It is important to pay attention to the signals your body sends you and connect with a gastrointestinal specialist at Washington Gastroenterology. Our highly trained providers proudly offer patient-centered care for fatty liver disease in Washington.
What are the symptoms of fatty liver disease?
Fatty liver disease can often appear in the body with no symptoms. A few of the signs that may occur, however, can include:
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Oversized liver
- Abdominal swelling and puffiness in the legs
- Feeling satiated in the center or upper right side of the abdomen
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Tiredness
- Discomfort in the upper right abdomen
- Dizziness
- Enlarged blood vessels just under the skin’s surface
- Red palms
- Enlarged breasts in males
What are the causes of FLD?
There are a few classifications of fatty liver disease (FLD) among Washington patients, with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease being the primary two. The causes of non-alcoholic conditions are not well-known, but they are linked to obesity, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia, and elevated levels of lipids in the blood. AFLD is brought on by consuming an extreme amount of alcohol.
How is fatty liver disease addressed?
Treatments will vary depending on the type of FLD and how impaired the liver is. Often, the liver may not be in a critical state and will proceed to work as usual. However, if treatment is necessary, your GI specialist at Washington Gastroenterology might propose the following:
- Losing weight
- Liver transplant
- Hepatitis A and B vaccinations
- Avoiding alcohol (if AFLD is present)
What is the difference between NAFLD and alcoholic steatohepatitis?
Both NAFLD and alcoholic fatty liver (alcoholic steatohepatitis) could progress to cirrhosis and potentially liver failure. The main difference between the two is that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is routinely associated with overweight individuals and those with diabetes. Alcoholic FLD is exclusively related to excessive alcohol consumption.
Find effective therapy for fatty liver disease
Hope and treatment are available for patients facing hepatic steatosis (FLD) in Washington. Our network of gastrointestinal specialists strives to provide patient-centered therapy that maintains the highest clinical criteria. If you are diagnosed with this severe condition or think you may have it, request a consultation with a local GI provider and trust your treatment to Washington Gastroenterology.
Fatty Liver Disease FAQs
What types of foods should you avoid if you have fatty liver disease?
If you have been diagnosed with fatty liver disease, you’re likely willing to begin a life-changing health journey. A few food and beverage items you might want to avoid if you have this liver condition are:
- Sugary foods and drinks (such as candy, desserts, soda, juices, etc.)
- White flour (including white bread and white pasta) and white rice
- Red meat (such as hamburgers and steak)
- Foods with high amounts of sodium
- Fried food
- Alcoholic beverages
What foods are good to eat if you have fatty liver disease?
Those with fatty liver disease often benefit from the “Mediterranean diet.” This diet consists of whole grains, vegetables and fruits, nuts, lean meats (such as chicken, turkey, and fish), and healthy fats (such as avocados and more). Your doctor at Washington Gastroenterology can help determine if a new diet is ideal for you.
Is fatty liver disease preventable?
Our GI specialists suggest that patients focus on sustaining their long-term health and wellness, which may help avoid the onset of fatty liver disease. Achieving an appropriate weight, maintaining an exercise routine, following a wholesome diet, and limiting the intake of alcoholic drinks may help reduce the chance of developing this condition.
What questions should you ask your doctor if you are diagnosed with fatty liver disease?
It is natural to have questions and fears after being diagnosed with fatty liver disease. Questions to ask your GI specialist may include:
- What damage has occurred to my liver and can the damage be reversed?
- Are any of my current medications possibly contributing to this condition?
- Should I lose weight to help heal my liver?
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