What Are Standard Signs and Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease?
10/6/2023
The condition of liver disease is characterized by the overabundance of fat in a person’s liver cells. This could result from excessive alcohol, or it may happen in individuals who drink very little alcohol. This disease may not present with symptoms in its beginning stages; however, if left untreated, it may lead to substantial liver issues. At Digestive Health Associates of Texas, we provide state-of-the-art care for fatty liver disease. Read on while we review the common signs of the condition, how it is diagnosed and handled, and how our gastrointestinal specialists in Dallas, TX are able to be of assistance.
What are the common signs and symptoms of fatty liver disease?
Fatty liver disease is typically split into two categories: alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Knowing the first signs of fatty liver disease is important for prompt treatment and management. These signs might include:
- Abdominal discomfort in the upper right area
- Unplanned loss of weight
- A high count of liver enzymes
- Unexplained fatigue and feeling weaker than normal
- An inflamed liver
In the event you are experiencing any of these signs or have other concerns impacting the health of your liver, we encourage you to contact one of our Digestive Health Associates of Texas locations in Dallas, TX.
How is fatty liver disease diagnosed?
The diagnosis of fatty liver disease may involve learning your medical history, a physical exam, and certain tests. Our Dallas, TX providers may start with a review of your symptoms and your lifestyle and a physical examination to screen for liver swelling. Performing a blood test will allow us to evaluate liver enzymes and function, establishing deviances that might indicate fatty liver disease. Imaging tests, like ultrasounds, MRIs, and CT scans, can help our doctors get a closer look at your liver and find fat buildup. Sometimes, a biopsy of the liver could be required in order to confirm your diagnosis. Accurate and early diagnosis of the condition is crucial for establishing appropriate care and fatty liver disease treatments.
What treatment options are possible for the disease?
Treating fatty liver disease generally involves managing the associated conditions and lifestyle details that affect this disease. This may include multiple of the approaches listed below:
- Medicines: Certain medicines may be prescribed to help control the conditions that contribute to fatty liver disease, such as high cholesterol or diabetes.
- Lifestyle adjustments: Lifestyle changes might include not drinking alcoholic beverages, starting a nutritious diet, creating a workout routine, and reaching a healthy weight (if necessary).
- Routine monitoring: Regular check-ups help our team of GI doctors observe the advancement of your disease and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
A liver transplant may be suggested in serious cases of fatty liver disease, such as when extensive liver damage has occurred.
How can this diagnosis change one’s life?
Life expectancy associated with fatty liver disease might be impacted by a range of factors, including the type of fatty liver disease and how early on it was detected. In the absence of treatment, the condition may amount to a more alarming liver problem, like liver cirrhosis or cancer. However, with expedient care, a great deal of patients are successful in managing the condition effectually and often maintain a normal lifespan.
Find treatment for fatty liver disease in Dallas, TX
If you are experiencing signs of fatty liver disease, please immediately find appropriate help. The passionate team at Digestive Health Associates of Texas is here to support you with state-of-the-art fatty liver disease treatments. By using a patient-centered technique, we endeavor to help manage this condition and enhance the health of your liver. Make the first move toward better wellness. Reach out to our team in Dallas, TX to request a consultation.