What is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver cells of people who drink little to no alcohol. It’s one of the most common liver disorders worldwide.
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NAFLD encompasses a spectrum of liver conditions ranging from simple fatty liver (steatosis) to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which involves inflammation and liver cell damage.
If left untreated, NASH can progress to more severe complications such as fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even liver failure.
If you are Hispanic, you have a high chance of carrying the gene for NAFLD. If both parents have the gene, the gene will be passed down to their child and the child will suffer from NAFLD at a young age throughout their life.
If you suffer from obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetic, high cholesterol, and metabolic syndrome, you may also be at high risk of developing NAFLD.
The exact cause of NAFLD is not fully understood, but it’s believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Insulin resistance and excess fat accumulation in the liver are key contributors to the development and progression of NAFLD.
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NAFLD often presents with no symptoms in its early stages, and it’s typically diagnosed incidentally during routine medical exams or tests for other health conditions. However, some individuals may experience fatigue, discomfort in the upper right abdomen, or an enlarged liver.
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Management of NAFLD focuses on lifestyle modifications such as weight loss, regular exercise, and a healthy diet low in saturated fats and refined sugars. Controlling underlying risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol is crucial in managing NAFLD and preventing its progression to more severe liver disease.
What is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)?
Who is at risk of developing NAFLD?
What causes NAFLD?
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For many years, Gonzaba Medical Group has focused on spreading awareness of
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, also known as the silent killer.
Our research division has partnered with Endeavor Clinical Trials and is focused on doing everything we can to help patients learn about managing the disease.
We are proud to have patients who have successfully participated in liver research studies that have proven to reduce the BMI in our patients, assist with liver care, and spread awareness to their loved ones.
Non-Alcoholic
Fatty Liver disease (NAFLD)
Northwest Clinic - Gonzaba Medical Group
7219 Culebra Rd
San Antonio, TX 78251
Research Line: 210-756-6802