RAHWAY,
N.J., May 8, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The condition
commonly known as "fatty liver" is serious and can have significant
health consequences if not properly addressed. But with the right
approach, doctors say it may be possible to control and even
reverse some of its effects.
In a new editorial from MerckManuals.com, Danielle Tholey, MD, Sidney Kimmel Medical
College at Thomas Jefferson University,
shares a few things to consider for patients concerned about the
condition. She also explains why doctors are moving away from the
term fatty liver towards more detailed terminology.
1. New names combat stigmas
In 2023, the American Association for the Study of Liver Disease
(AASLD) updated the nomenclature around steatotic liver disease and
fatty liver. The changes include the renaming and recategorizing of
different forms of steatotic liver disease.
Fatty liver due to any condition except consumption of large
amounts of alcohol was previously called nonalcoholic fatty liver
disease (NAFLD). Yet terms like "fatty" and the focus on alcohol
can be stigmatizing, Tholey explains. In some cases, that stigma
may prevent patients from seeking treatment.
The overall category of fatty liver is now reclassified as
steatotic liver disease (SLD). Metabolic associated fatty liver
(previously known as nonalcoholic fatty liver or NAFL) is now known
as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease
(MASLD).
2. Contributing causes go beyond alcohol use
Consumption of large amounts of alcohol is one common cause of
steatotic liver disease. This condition is called
alcohol-associated (or alcohol-related) liver disease.
On the other hand, MASLD includes at least one of the components
of metabolic syndrome, such as excess body weight, high fat levels
in the blood, or insulin resistance, says Tholey. She adds the
obesity epidemic in America may be one reason for the increase in
MASLD.
In some cases, a combination of metabolic factors and increased
alcohol use can contribute to fatty liver. Tholey stresses even
social drinking can have a negative effect, and it's not just hard
alcohol that can lead to fatty liver.
3. It can be reversible with healthy habits
With the right approach and lifestyle changes, patients can
improve and sometimes even completely resolve the effects of fatty
liver conditions, Tholey says. Maintaining a healthy weight with a
healthy diet heavy on leafy green vegetables and light on sugar and
processed foods is a good start. Regular exercise, limiting alcohol
use, and controlling blood pressure and cholesterol are also
important.
4. Be honest with your doctor
Bottom line: For individuals concerned about fatty liver, the
best first step is to have an open conversation with your
physician. Tholey says it's important to be honest about your
lifestyle and drinking habits. Based on that conversation, the
doctor will recommend any necessary lifestyle changes and
potentially refer you to a specialist for a screening or other next
steps.
You can read more of Tholey's takeaways on fatty liver in this
editorial on MerckManuals.com.
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