FAT ACCUMULATION IN THE LIVER
Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD/NASH)
A common condition in which fat accumulates in the liver, ranging from simple fatty liver to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) with inflammation and risk of cirrhosis. Lifestyle change is the foundation of care.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Fatty Liver Disease
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver in people who drink little or no alcohol. It is now one of the most common liver conditions worldwide, closely linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and metabolic syndrome. Most patients have no symptoms and the diagnosis is made on routine blood tests or ultrasound. NAFLD ranges from simple fatty liver, which generally has a good outlook, to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), in which there is inflammation and liver cell damage that can progress to fibrosis, cirrhosis and liver cancer. The mainstay of treatment is lifestyle modification — including weight loss, healthy diet, regular physical activity and good control of diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol. There are currently no widely approved specific drug treatments, although research is rapidly advancing. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides comprehensive NAFLD evaluation and care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Obesity, particularly central or abdominal fat
- Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance
- High cholesterol and triglyceride levels
- Metabolic syndrome
- Sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy diet
- Rapid weight loss in some patients
- Family history and genetic factors
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Liver function tests, ultrasound and assessment of fibrosis through non-invasive tests
Simple fatty liver · NASH · Fibrosis · Cirrhosis
Weight loss, dietary changes, exercise and control of metabolic risk factors
Significant weight loss can reverse fatty liver and even some early fibrosis
Regular liver function tests and fibrosis assessment in NASH
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Weight Loss & Metabolic Control
The most effective approach is structured weight loss through dietary changes and regular physical activity, combined with good control of diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol. Even modest weight loss (5–10% of body weight) significantly reduces liver fat and inflammation.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews lifestyle and metabolic factors, examines the patient and arranges liver function tests, ultrasound and fibrosis assessment.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created with specific weight, dietary, exercise and metabolic targets.
- 3
Medical Management
Lifestyle modification, control of diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol, and avoidance of alcohol and liver-affecting medications.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Regular review of weight, liver function and fibrosis assessment, with specialist referral for advanced disease.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Weight Loss and Dietary Modification
Structured weight loss through dietary changes — including a Mediterranean-style diet, reduced sugar and refined carbohydrates — significantly improves fatty liver.
Regular Physical Activity
Regular aerobic and resistance exercise reduces liver fat independently of weight loss.
Control of Diabetes, Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
Good control of associated metabolic risk factors improves liver outcomes and overall cardiovascular health.
Avoidance of Alcohol and Liver-Affecting Medications
Limiting alcohol intake and avoiding unnecessary medications that can affect the liver supports liver recovery.
Specialist Referral for Advanced Disease (Referral for hepatology)
Patients with significant fibrosis, cirrhosis or other advanced features need specialist hepatology evaluation and ongoing care.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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