Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver in people who drink little to no alcohol. It ranges in severity:
- Simply Fatty Liver (Steatosis) – Fat accumulation without significant liver damage.
- Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) – A more severe form involving inflammation and potential liver scarring (fibrosis), which can lead to cirrhosis or liver failure.
- Common Symptoms
NAFLD is often “silent”, meaning many people do not experience symptoms until liver damage progresses. However, some may experience:
- Fatigue
- Mild pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen
- Unexplained weight loss
- Swelling in the legs or abdomen (if cirrhosis develops)
- Frequently Asked Questions
In many cases, lifestyle changes can improve liver health.
Risk factors include obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Management focuses on lifestyle changes such as weight loss and diet improvement.
