Fatty Liver Disease in Indianapolis, IN
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Find a ProviderWhat is fatty liver disease?
Fatty liver disease (FLD, also called hepatic steatosis) mostly falls under two main categories: NAFLD, or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and alcoholic FLD. Fatty liver disease is a condition where fat forms in the liver cells. This can cause liver inflammation, which can, in turn, progress to scarring and irreversible damage. If the severity of the disease gets worse, or if it is left untreated, FLD can advance to liver cirrhosis and eventually liver failure.
It is key to observe the symptoms your body is sending you and contact a gastroenterologist at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology. Our skilled specialists proudly offer personalized care for fatty liver disease in Indianapolis, IN.
What are the symptoms of fatty liver disease?
Fatty liver disease may frequently develop in the body with zero apparent symptoms. Some of the symptoms that may emerge, however, may include:
- Expanded blood vessels just under the skin's surface
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
- Red palms
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Enlarged liver
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Abdominal swelling and swelling in the legs
- Feeling full in the center or top right side of the abdomen
- Oversized breasts in males
What are the causes of fatty liver disease?
There are several categories of fatty liver disease among Indianapolis, IN patients, with non-alcoholic and alcoholic FLD being the two most common. The reasons for the non-alcoholic conditions are not known, but they are connected to obesity, metabolic syndrome, high blood sugar, and high levels of lipid in the blood. Alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) is triggered by consuming an excessive amount of alcohol.
How is fatty liver disease addressed?
Treatments for hepatic steatosis differ based on the type of disease and how injured the liver is. Generally speaking, the liver is not at a severe state and can continue performing as normal. If treatment is needed, though, your GI physician at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology could recommend the following:
- Liver transplant
- Hepatitis A and B vaccinations
- Weight loss
- Minimizing alcohol use (if AFLD is present)
What is the difference between NAFLD and alcoholic steatohepatitis?
Both alcoholic and non-alcoholic FLD may lead to cirrhosis and possibly liver failure. The primary difference separating the two is that NAFLD is commonly associated with overweight individuals and individuals with diabetes. Alcoholic steatohepatitis is entirely associated with excessive alcohol intake.
Find effective treatment for fatty liver disease
There is hope and treatment for individuals living with hepatic steatosis in Indianapolis, IN. Our group of gastrointestinal specialists aims to offer patient-centered treatment that sustains the highest medical principles. If you suspect or are diagnosed with this serious condition, schedule an appointment with our GI physicians and entrust your health to Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
Fatty Liver Disease FAQs
Are there any types of foods you should avoid with fatty liver disease?
If you have been diagnosed with or suspect you have fatty liver disease, you’re likely willing and ready to embark on a new wellness journey. Common food items you might avoid are:
- Sugary foods and drinks (like candies, cookies and cake, soda and juices, and others)
- White flour (white bread, white pasta) and white rice
- Fried foods
- Foods with added salt
- Red meat (such as hamburgers and steak)
- Alcoholic beverages
What foods are ideal to eat if you have fatty liver disease?
People with fatty liver disease often consider eating what is called the “Mediterranean diet.” The Mediterranean diet incorporates many fruits and vegetables, lean meats, whole grains (such as oats, brown rice, and barley), various nuts, and healthy fats (including avocados, egg yolks, olives, and more). Your GI provider at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology can help you decide if a revised diet is ideal for your health.
Is there a way to prevent fatty liver disease?
We suggest that patients concentrate on maintaining their long-term health and wellness, which, in turn, could help prevent the development of fatty liver disease. Keeping a healthy weight, losing weight if needed, getting regular exercise, consuming a nutritious diet, and limiting alcohol consumption can minimize the risk of this condition.
What questions might you ask your doctor if you are diagnosed with fatty liver disease?
If you receive a diagnosis of fatty liver disease, it’s normal to have questions and/or fears. Common questions to ask your GI provider are:
- What damage has occurred to my liver and is it reversible?
- Can losing weight improve the health of my liver?
- Are my medicines possibly contributing to this condition?
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