Dr. Sharan Narute

Non Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Pune & PCMC - Dr. Sharan Narute

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

NAFLD encompasses a spectrum of liver conditions characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver in individuals who do not consume excessive amounts of alcohol. It is considered the hepatic manifestation of metabolic syndrome.

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which fat builds up in your liver. Nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are types of NAFLD. If you have NASH, you have inflammation and liver damage, along with fat in your liver.

Causes

Insulin resistance, obesity, type 2 diabetes, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome are among the primary risk factors for NAFLD. The exact cause of NAFLD is not fully understood but likely involves a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Symptoms

NAFLD is often asymptomatic in its early stages. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal discomfort, and mild elevation of liver enzymes may occur. In advanced stages, symptoms may resemble those of liver cirrhosis.

Treatment

Lifestyle interventions are the cornerstone of NAFLD management. Weight loss through calorie restriction and increased physical activity can improve insulin sensitivity and reduce liver fat accumulation. Additionally, management of underlying conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidemia is essential. Pharmacological treatments targeting insulin resistance, inflammation, and oxidative stress are being investigated but have not been widely adopted.