Fatty Liver Disease in Little Rock, AR
Ready to Consult a GI Physician?
Find a ProviderWhat is fatty liver disease?
There are two main types of hepatic steatosis (fatty liver disease): NAFLD or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and alcoholic fatty liver disease. Fatty liver disease (FLD) is a disease where fat builds up in the liver cells. This can create liver inflammation, otherwise known as hepatitis, which may, in turn, lead to scarring and irreversible damage. If the severity of the disease gets worse, or if it is left untreated, fatty liver disease (FLD) can progress to liver cirrhosis and ultimately liver failure.
It is important to pay attention to the signals your body is sending you and contact a GI provider at GastroArkansas. Our highly trained specialists offer individualized care for fatty liver disease in Little Rock, AR.
What are the signs of fatty liver disease?
Fatty liver disease can often manifest in the body with no symptoms. A few of the symptoms that may emerge, however, could include:
- Dizziness
- Discomfort in the upper right abdomen
- Enlarged liver
- Weight loss and loss of appetite
- Enlarged breasts in males
- Tiredness
- Abdominal enlargement and puffiness in the legs
- Expanded blood vessels just below the skin’s surface
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Red palms
- Feeling full in the middle or top right side of the abdomen
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, contact a GastroArkansas specialist near you to discuss your concerns and seek a possible diagnosis.
What are the causes of FLD?
There are a few types of fatty liver disease among Little Rock, AR patients, with non-alcoholic hepatic steatosis (fatty liver disease) and alcoholic FLD being the primary two. The causes of the non-alcoholic conditions are not known, but they are linked to obesity, metabolic syndrome, hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), and increasing levels of triglycerides in the blood. Alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) is caused by consuming an extreme amount of alcohol.
How is fatty liver disease addressed?
Treatments will depend on the type of FLD and how damaged the liver is. Often, the liver isn't at a crucial state and will proceed to work as normal. However, if treatment is warranted, your GI specialist at GastroArkansas could propose the following:
- Liver transplant
- Minimizing alcohol use (if alcoholic fatty liver disease is present)
- Hepatitis A and B vaccinations
- Weight loss
The best way to determine the right treatment option for you is to request a consultation with a GI specialist in Little Rock, AR so they can create a personalized treatment plan customized for your individualized needs.
What is the difference between NAFLD and alcoholic steatohepatitis?
Both NAFLD and alcoholic fatty liver (alcoholic steatohepatitis) might develop into cirrhosis and sometimes liver failure. The main difference between the two is that NAFLD is frequently related to overweight individuals and individuals with diabetes. Alcoholic FLD is entirely associated with excessive alcohol consumption.
Find effective therapy for fatty liver disease
For clients enduring hepatic steatosis (FLD) in Little Rock, AR there is hope and treatment available. Our network of gastrointestinal providers aims to offer patient-centered care that maintains optimal clinical principles. If you suspect, or are diagnosed with, this life-threatening condition, request a consultation with our gastrointestinal specialists and entrust your health to GastroArkansas.
Fatty Liver Disease FAQs
Are there foods you should avoid if you have fatty liver disease?
If you have received a fatty liver disease diagnosis, you may wish to embark on a life-changing wellness journey. Common foods and beverages you might want to avoid with fatty liver disease are:
- Foods high in salt
- Red meat (beef, pork, venison, lamb, veal, mutton, and goat)
- White flour (for example, white bread, white pasta, and white rice)
- Sugary foods (including candy, desserts, soda, juices, etc.)
- Fried foods
- Alcohol
What foods are ideal to eat if you have fatty liver disease?
People with fatty liver disease often benefit from what is called the “Mediterranean diet.” The Mediterranean diet comprises many vegetables and fruits, whole grains (such as oats, brown rice, and barley), nuts, lean meats (such as chicken, turkey, and fish), and healthy fats (avocados and more). Our team at GastroArkansas can help you determine if a change in diet may be beneficial.
Can fatty liver disease be prevented?
We generally encourage patients to focus on their overall health. This, in turn, may help prevent fatty liver disease. Maintaining a healthy weight, losing weight if advised by a doctor, maintaining an exercise routine, keeping up with a wholesome diet, and limiting alcoholic beverages can help reduce the risk of fatty liver disease.
What questions should you ask your GI doctor if you receive a fatty liver disease diagnosis?
In the event you are diagnosed with fatty liver disease, you will likely have several questions, fears, or concerns. Some questions to discuss with your gastroenterologist may include:
- Can losing weight improve the health of my liver?
- What damage has occurred to my liver?
- Can my damage damage be reversed?
- Is my medication possibly impacting this condition?
Reviews
Very friendly staff. Made me feel comfortable. Ran on time. Good experience.
Friendly and informative great experience in an uncomfortable situation!
Great Dr great Staff
Wonderful caring doctor...great bedside manner...would recommend him to any and all that are in need of his line of work
Dr Bobby Kakati,M.D.was very understanding and showed his care and concerns and very polite and the whole staff was polite.
10
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating