Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
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- Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Overview
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease, now called Metabolic Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), occurs when fat builds up in the liver cells of people who drink little or no alcohol. MASLD is the most common chronic liver condition worldwide, often linked to metabolic problems like obesity and diabetes. If MASLD worsens, it can lead to inflammation and damage, known as Metabolic dysfunction Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH), formerly called NASH. Advanced MASLD can progress to cirrhosis and increase the risk of liver cancer.
What Are the Risks for Developing MASLD?
MASLD tends to develop in people with metabolic syndrome, which includes:
- Overweight or obesity
- Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance
- High cholesterol and triglycerides
- High blood pressure
- Poor diet and sedentary lifestyle
- Rapid weight loss
- Certain medications may also increase the risk.
However, some people may develop MASLD even without these common risk factors.
MASLD and Heart Health Connection
MASLD and cardiovascular disease (CVD) share many common risk factors related to metabolic syndrome, such as high blood sugar, abnormal lipid levels, and obesity, particularly abdominal fat. While MASLD affects the liver, the leading cause of death among people with MASLD is often heart disease, not liver complications.
Medical experts recommend discussing this connection with your healthcare provider to manage both liver and heart health effectively.
What Happens if MASLD Gets Worse?
If MASLD progresses, it can cause liver inflammation and damage, leading to MASH (formerly NASH). Without intervention, MASH may cause fibrosis (scarring) and eventually cirrhosis. Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of MASLD progressing to severe liver disease.
What Are the Symptoms of MASLD?
Often, MASLD causes no symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms occur, they typically include:
- Fatigue (extreme tiredness)
- Weakness
- Abdominal discomfort or pain
If MASLD advances to MASH, additional symptoms may appear:
- Jaundice (yellowing of eyes and skin)
- Severe itching
- Fluid buildup in the abdomen (ascites)
- Swelling in the ankles (edema)
- Mental confusion in severe cases
How is MASLD Diagnosed?
Doctors may suspect MASLD if blood tests reveal elevated liver enzymes. They will typically:
- Rule out other causes of liver enzyme abnormalities.
- Review your medical history and risk factors.
- Order imaging tests like ultrasound to evaluate liver fat accumulation.
- In some cases, a liver biopsy may be performed to assess inflammation and scarring.
How is MASLD Treated?
Currently, no specific medications are approved for MASLD, but lifestyle changes are key:
- Consult a liver specialist (hepatologist or gastroenterologist) for monitoring and guidance.
- Lose weight safely with the help of your doctor or dietitian.
- Manage cholesterol and triglycerides with diet, exercise, and medications if needed.
- Control diabetes effectively if you have it.
- Avoid alcohol to prevent further liver damage.
Can MASLD Be Prevented?
Yes. Preventive measures include:
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Eating a balanced diet rich in lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats.
- Regular physical activity most days of the week.
- Limiting or avoiding alcohol intake.
- Using medications responsibly and following dosing instructions.
MASLD and Pregnancy
MASLD affects about 18% of pregnant women and can worsen during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and natural insulin resistance. Risk factors during pregnancy include obesity, diabetes, previous gestational diabetes, and advanced maternal age.
MASLD during pregnancy is linked to increased risks of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm birth, and adverse fetal outcomes. Management focuses on:
- Healthy diet and safe physical activity during pregnancy.
- Preconception counseling, weight management, and blood sugar control before pregnancy.
- Close monitoring throughout pregnancy to reduce risks for mother and baby.
- Breastfeeding may reduce MASLD risk for both mother and child.
How Can Liver Transplantation Portal Help You?
If MASLD progresses to advanced liver disease or cirrhosis, liver transplantation may become necessary. Liver Transplantation Portal connects you with top liver specialists and transplant centers, providing personalized guidance through diagnosis, treatment, and donor matching. Our platform ensures you receive expert care tailored to your unique health needs.
The most common cause, as it significantly reduces the liver’s ability to function.
Sudden loss of liver function due to factors like viral hepatitis, drug overdose, or toxins.
High blood pressure in the liver can lead to the diversion of blood around the liver, allowing toxins to bypass detoxification.
Bleeding in the intestines can increase the amount of toxins that the liver must process.
Infections, especially bacterial infections in people with liver disease, can trigger or worsen HE.
Imbalances in sodium, potassium, and other electrolytes may also contribute to HE development.
Why Choose Liver Transplantation Portal?
We are committed to supporting you with expert knowledge and compassionate care at every step. With access to leading specialists and trusted resources, Liver Transplantation Portal helps you manage MASLD effectively and find life-saving transplant options when needed.
Contact us today to learn more about MASLD and how we can assist you in protecting your liver health.