Fatty Liver Disease in Arizona
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Find a ProviderWhat is fatty liver disease?
There are two primary types of hepatic steatosis (fatty liver disease): non-alcoholic (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease. Fatty liver disease (FLD) is a condition where fat bunches up in the liver cells. This may cause liver inflammation, which might, in turn, evolve to scarring and irrecoverable damage. If the severity of the disease advances, or if it's left untreated, FLD can progress to hepatic cirrhosis and sooner or later, liver failure.
It is key to observe the signals your body is sending you and connect with a gastrointestinal physician at Arizona Digestive Health. Our skilled physicians proudly offer patient-focused treatment for fatty liver disease in Phoenix, AZ.
What are the symptoms of fatty liver disease?
Hepatic steatosis could often display in the body with no symptoms. Some of the signs that could show up, however, can include:
- Feeling bloated in the middle or upper right side of the abdomen
- Red palms
- Oversized blood vessels just under the skin’s surface
- Tiredness
- Dizziness
- Oversized liver
- Abdominal swelling and puffiness in the legs
- Enlarged breasts in males
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
What are the causes of fatty liver disease?
There are some classifications of fatty liver disease (FLD) among Phoenix, AZ patients, with non-alcoholic hepatic steatosis (fatty liver disease) and alcoholic FLD being the central two. The causes of the non-alcoholic conditions are not known, but they are linked to obesity, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, and elevated levels of lipid in the blood. Alcoholic fatty liver disease is brought on by consuming an extreme amount of alcohol.
How is fatty liver disease treated?
Treatments differ depending on the type of fatty liver disease and how damaged the liver is. Often, the liver isn't at a severe state and continues operating as normal. Though, if treatment is appropriate, your gastrointestinal physician at Arizona Digestive Health may advise the following:
- Reducing weight
- Liver transplant
- Minimizing alcohol use (if AFLD is present)
- Hepatitis A and B vaccinations
What is the difference between NAFLD and alcoholic steatohepatitis?
Both non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver (alcoholic steatohepatitis) may develop into cirrhosis and sometimes liver failure. The primary difference between the two is that NAFLD is mostly related to overweight people and individuals with diabetes. Alcoholic fatty liver disease is solely connected to large volumes of alcohol consumption.
Find effective treatment for fatty liver disease
For clients enduring hepatic steatosis in Phoenix, AZ, there is hope and treatment available. Our network of GI specialists aims to offer patient-centered therapy that sustains the highest clinical principles. If you think you may have or have been diagnosed with this life-threatening condition, request a consultation with our GI physicians and trust your care to Arizona Digestive Health.
Fatty Liver Disease FAQs
What types of foods should you avoid eating if you have fatty liver disease?
If you are diagnosed with or suspect you have fatty liver disease, you’re likely ready to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Common food items you might want to avoid eating if you have this condition include:
- Alcohol
- Red meat (beef, pork, venison, lamb, veal, mutton, and goat)
- Sugary foods (like candy, cake and cookies, soda, and others)
- White flour (for example, white bread, white pasta, and white rice)
- Fried food
- Foods with high amounts of sodium
What foods are acceptable to eat if you are diagnosed with fatty liver disease?
If you have fatty liver disease, you might consider following the “Mediterranean diet.” The Mediterranean diet includes a lot of fruits and vegetables, whole grains (such as oats, brown rice, and barley), a variety of nuts, lean meats, and healthy fats (avocados, peanut butter, olive oil, and more). Your GI doctor at Arizona Digestive Health can help you determine if dietary changes are ideal for your health.
Is it possible to prevent fatty liver disease?
Our team suggests that patients focus on maintaining their overall health, which, in turn, could help prevent the development of fatty liver disease. Achieving a healthy weight (or losing weight if considered overweight or obese), maintaining an exercise routine, eating a nutritious diet, and limiting alcoholic beverages may decrease the risk of fatty liver disease.
What questions should you ask your GI doctor if you are diagnosed with fatty liver disease?
If you have just been diagnosed with fatty liver disease, you likely have many questions and/or concerns. Some questions to discuss with your GI doctor include:
- How much damage has occurred to my liver and can the damage be reversed?
- Are my daily medications possibly affecting my fatty liver disease?
- Do I need to lose weight to help my liver heal?
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