Fatty Liver Disease in Kansas City, MO
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Find a ProviderWhat is fatty liver disease?
There are two main types of fatty liver disease: NAFLD or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and alcoholic steatohepatitis (alcoholic fatty liver disease). Fatty liver disease is a disorder where fat forms in the liver cells. This can create liver inflammation, otherwise known as hepatitis, which could, in turn, progress to scarring and unrepairable damage. If the severity of the disease advances, or if it is left untreated, fatty liver disease (FLD) can progress to liver cirrhosis, and sooner or later, liver failure.
It is important to notice the signs your body is telling you and connect with a gastrointestinal physician at Digestive Health Specialists. Our experienced physicians proudly offer individualized treatment for fatty liver disease in Kansas City, MO.
What are the signs of fatty liver disease?
Fatty liver disease might frequently display in the body with no symptoms. Some of the signs that might show up, however, could include:
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
- Red palms
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Nausea
- Abdominal swelling and swelling in the legs
- Feeling full in the middle or upper right side of the abdomen
- Oversized breasts in males
- Expanded blood vessels just below the skin’s surface
- Oversized liver
- Tiredness
What are the causes of fatty liver disease?
There are a couple of classifications of fatty liver disease among Kansas City, MO patients, with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic hepatic steatosis (fatty liver disease) being the central two. The reasons for the non-alcoholic conditions are not well-known, but they are associated with obesity, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and enhanced levels of lipid in the blood. Alcoholic fatty liver disease is brought on by consuming too much alcohol.
How is fatty liver disease treated?
Treatments fluctuate depending on the sort of FLD and how damaged the liver is. Oftentimes, the liver isn't at a critical state and proceeds to function as normal. However, if treatment is appropriate, your GI specialist at Digestive Health Specialists could propose the following:
- Hepatitis A and B vaccinations
- Weight loss
- Liver transplant
- Minimizing alcohol use (if alcoholic fatty liver disease is present)
What is the difference between NAFLD and alcoholic steatohepatitis?
Both NAFLD and alcoholic fatty liver (alcoholic steatohepatitis) can move forward to cirrhosis and sometimes liver failure. The main difference between the two is that non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is commonly related to overweight people and individuals with diabetes. Alcoholic FLD is entirely associated with high volumes of alcohol consumption.
Find effective care for fatty liver disease
For clients dealing with hepatic steatosis in Kansas City, MO, there is hope and treatment accessible. Our network of GI specialists aims to offer patient-centered treatment that maintains optimal clinical principles. If you suspect or are diagnosed with this life-threatening condition, schedule an appointment with our GI providers and trust your health to Digestive Health Specialists.
Fatty Liver Disease FAQs
What types of foods should you avoid if you have fatty liver disease?
If you have been diagnosed with or suspect you could have fatty liver disease, you may be seeking ways to improve your health. Types of food and beverages you might want to avoid include:
- Foods high in sugar (such as candy, cake and cookies, soda, etc.)
- Fried food
- Red meat (hamburgers, steak, and more)
- Foods high in sodium
- White flour (white rice, white bread, white pasta)
- Alcoholic beverages
What foods are good to eat when you have fatty liver disease?
Those with fatty liver disease may consider following the “Mediterranean diet.” This diet includes a lot of fruits and vegetables, whole grains (barley, quinoa, oats, brown rice, etc.), a variety of nuts, lean meats (chicken, fish, turkey, etc.), and healthy fats (like avocados, egg yolks, olives, and more). Our team at Digestive Health Specialists can help you decide if a special diet might benefit your health.
Is it possible to prevent fatty liver disease?
Our team suggests that patients strive to maintain their overall health, which, in turn, may help avoid the development of fatty liver disease. Achieving or maintaining an ideal weight, exercising routinely, following a wholesome diet, and minimizing the intake of alcoholic beverages can lessen the risk of fatty liver disease.
What questions should you ask your gastroenterologist if you are diagnosed with fatty liver disease?
If you are diagnosed with fatty liver disease, you likely have several questions and concerns. Common questions to ask your GI doctor may include:
- Will I need to lose weight to improve my liver health?
- Are any of my daily medications possibly contributing to my fatty liver disease?
- What damage has occurred to my liver and can it be reversed?
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