Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which fat builds up in the liver, making it harder for the liver to function properly. While fat in the liver can result from drinking too much alcohol, NAFLD occurs in people who drink little or no alcohol. 

Types of Fatty Liver Disease 

There are two main forms of fatty liver disease: 

  • NAFLD – fat is present in the liver, but without inflammation or damage 
  • Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) – fat buildup is accompanied by inflammation and damage to liver cells. Over time, NASH may progress to scarring (fibrosus) and even cirrhosis 

Symptoms 

NAFLD can develop without causing any symptoms. Most people with NAFLD live with fat in their liver without developing liver damage. However, when the disease progresses to NASH or cirrhosis, symptoms may include: 

  • Severe tiredness 
  • Weakness 
  • Unexplained weight loss 
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) 
  • Spiderlike blood vessels on the skin 
  • Persistent itching 

NASH that develops into cirrhosis could cause additional symptoms like fluid retention, internal bleeding, muscle wasting, and confusion. People with cirrhosis may eventually develop liver failure and need a liver transplant. 

Who's at Risk? 

While the exact cause of NAFLD is not known, several factors may increase the risk of the condition:  

  • Being overweight or obese 
  • Having high blood fat levels, either triglycerides or LDL (“bad”) cholesterol 
  • Having diabetes or prediabetes 
  • Having high blood pressure 

Diagnosing Fatty Liver Disease  

Fatty liver disease is often discovered during routine blood work. If abnormal liver test results are found, your doctor may recommend imaging scans like ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) to look for fat in the liver. Liver biopsy is often used to confirm a diagnosis and determine the extent of any damage to the liver.  

The only way to diagnose NAFLD and NASH is with a liver biopsy, which involves placing a long needle through your skin into your liver. The needle removes a small piece of liver tissue that can be looked at under a microscope.  

Treatment and Management 

There is no specific medication to treat NAFLD or NASH but lifestyle changes can control or reverse the fat buildup in your liver.  

If you have NAFLD, these lifestyle changes may include: 

  • Losing weight 
  • Lowering your cholesterol and triglycerides 
  • Controlling your diabetes 
  • Avoiding alcohol 

If you have NASH, these lifestyle changes may include: 

  • Losing weight 
  • Medication to reduce cholesterol or triglycerides 
  • Medication to reduce blood pressure 
  • Medication to control diabetes 
  • Limiting over-the-counter medications 
  • Avoiding alcohol 
  • Seeing a liver specialist 

Ongoing research is exploring possible treatments for NASH, including vitamin E and certain diabetes medications. 

Living Well With Fatty Liver Disease 

Managing fatty liver disease involves learning as much as you can about your condition and working closely with your healthcare team. Since many medications -- even those available over the counter – can harm your liver, be sure to talk to your doctor about any medications, dietary supplements, and vitamins before you take them.  

Other ways to manage fatty liver disease include:  

  • Maintaining a healthy weight 
  • Eating a balanced diet  
  • Getting regular exercise 
  • Avoiding alcohol 

When to Contact Your Doctor 

If you've been diagnosed with any fatty liver disease, let your doctor know if you have any symptoms that mean your condition is progressing. Specifically, let your doctor know if you experience: 

  • Fatigue 
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Weight loss 
  • Weakness 
  • Fluid retention 
  • Bleeding 

Why Choose Cooper for Fatty Liver Disease Care? 

At Cooper University Health Care, our liver specialists offer expert, compassionate care for people with NAFLD and NASH. Patients throughout South Jersey and beyond turn to Cooper for our: 

  • Expertise: Our board-certified hepatologists and gastroenterologists have advanced training in liver health and are experienced in diagnosing and managing all stages of fatty liver disease – from early fat buildup to cirrhosis. 
  • Personalized care plans: We take a comprehensive and individualized approach to managing NAFLD and NASH. Your care team will work with you to develop a plan that supports long-term liver health and fits your lifestyle and medical needs. 
  • Advanced diagnostics and monitoring: We use state-of-the-art imaging, laboratory testing, and liver biopsy when needed to accurately assess the condition of your liver and guide treatment decisions. 
  • Integrated care team: In addition to liver specialists, your care may include endocrinologists, dietitians, weight management experts, and other professionals dedicated to your overall well-being. 
  • Access to clinical trials: Cooper participates in research and clinical trials that may give patients access to promising new treatments for NASH and other liver-related conditions. 
  • Education and support: We provide tools and resources to help you understand your condition, make lifestyle changes, and take an active role in managing your liver health. 

Schedule an Appointment 

For more information about fatty liver disease or to schedule an appointment with one of our liver specialists, call 800.8.COOPER (800.826.6737).

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