Liver Disease is a growing problem, affecting approximately 25% of the population in Central Florida. Impacting people of all ages and backgrounds.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or NAFLD is a condition that describes a wide range of diseases that begin when fat accumulates in the liver.

One of the main causes of fatty liver disease is obesity, along with high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, family history, and high cholesterol.

The liver is connected to processing fat in the body. The fat stored in the liver is used up as energy, but if the liver stores more fat than what is being removed, then the liver progressively becomes fatty.

Over time, the fat deposits in the liver builds up and can cause swilling and inflammation, which can lead to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis or NASH.

NASH can cause scarring of the liver, which can progress to liver cancer or liver failure. Approximately, one third of those people with a fatty liver go on to develop NASH. Out of those who develop NASH, one third will develop cirrhosis, extensive scarring of the liver.

As the rates of type 2 diabetes and obesity increase, so does the number of people being diagnosed with NAFLD.

NAFLD often has no symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, when it does, they may include:

Fatigue.

Not feeling well, or malaise.

Pain or discomfort in the upper right belly area.

Possible symptoms of NASH and cirrhosis, or severe scarring, include:

Itchy skin.

Abdominal swelling, also called ascites (uh-SY-teez).

Shortness of breath.

Swelling of the legs.

Spider-like blood vessels just beneath the skin’s surface.

Enlarged spleen.

Red palms.

Yellowing of the skin and eyes, or jaundice.

Early diagnosis and treatment is important due to the progressive nature and irreversible characteristics if the disease. There are a number of therapeutic treatments for fatty liver disease.

When To See A Gastrointestinal Specialist

If you or a loved on is suffering with the above symptoms, abdominal pain, or digestive health, contact Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida. Our mission is to provide our patients with the highest quality of care with the latest technology available. Once diagnosed by a Gastroenterologist, there are several treatment options and medications available to help treat and ease your symptoms.

Preventative screening and testing help detect diseases and conditions in their early and most treatable stages. For more information or to make an appointment, contact Gastroenterology Consultants of Central Florida.