Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jul 7, 2024.
AMBULATORY CARE:
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
is a buildup of fat in your liver from a condition other than alcohol use. NAFLD usually does not cause symptoms. You may have pain in the upper right side of your abdomen or feel tired. NAFLD may also be called non-alcohol related fatty liver disease.
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Any of the following can increase your risk for NAFLD:
- Health conditions such as obesity, high cholesterol, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, or hepatitis
- Certain medicines, such as chemotherapy, antibiotics, and heart medicines
- Exposure to chemicals that are toxic to the liver, such as pesticides, toluene, or vinyl chloride
- IV nutrition with total parenteral nutrition (TPN) for longer than 6 weeks
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) or have someone call if:
- You have shortness of breath.
- You have trouble thinking clearly or are confused.
Seek care immediately if:
- You feel lightheaded or faint.
- You have shaking, chills, and a fever.
Call your doctor or liver specialist if:
- You have more pain or swelling in your abdomen.
- You feel more tired than usual.
- You bruise or bleed easily.
- Your skin or the whites of your eyes look yellow.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Treatment:
Medicine is usually not used to treat NAFLD. Medicine may be used to treat other health conditions and manage blood sugar or cholesterol levels. Your medicine may be changed if it is causing your NAFLD.
Manage or prevent NAFLD:
- Ask about medicines and supplements. Some medicines and supplements can harm your liver. Acetaminophen is an example. Talk to your healthcare provider about all your medicines. Do not take any over-the-counter medicine or herbal supplements unless your provider says it is okay.
- Maintain a healthy weight. Ask your provider what a healthy weight is for you. Ask your provider to help you create a weight loss plan, if needed.
- Be physically active, as directed. Aerobic activity 3 times a week for 20 to 45 minutes can help decrease fat buildup in your liver. Examples are cycling, brisk walking, or jogging. Ask your provider about the best physical activity plan for you.
- Eat a variety of healthy foods. Healthy foods include vegetables, fruit, whole-grain breads, low-fat dairy products, beans, lean meats, and fish. Foods low in simple carbohydrates, high-fructose corn syrup, and trans fat may help decrease fat buildup in your liver.
- Do not drink alcohol. Alcohol may make NAFLD worse and harm your liver. Ask your provider for information if you need help to quit drinking.
Follow up with your doctor or liver specialist as directed:
You may need to return for more tests. You may also be referred to a specialist. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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