Also known as fatty liver, NAFLD, metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, MASLD.
Queste informazioni hanno carattere puramente orientativo e non costituiscono un parere medico. Consulta sempre un professionista sanitario qualificato per problemi medici personali. In caso di emergenza, chiama il numero di emergenza locale.
Overview
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is the buildup of extra fat in the liver in people who drink little or no alcohol. It is closely linked to excess weight, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol. Many people have no symptoms, but in some it can progress over years to inflammation and scarring of the liver, so early lifestyle changes matter.
Symptoms
Often no symptoms in early stages
Tiredness
Discomfort or dull ache in the upper right abdomen
Unexplained weight changes
In advanced stages, yellowing of the skin or eyes, swelling, or easy bruising
Causes & risk factors
Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen
Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance
High cholesterol or triglycerides
High blood pressure
Diets high in sugar and refined carbohydrates
Genetic predisposition
Treatment & self-care
Care centres on managing the underlying metabolic factors, since there is no quick fix. It generally involves gradual weight loss where appropriate, a balanced diet lower in sugar and refined carbohydrates, regular activity, and control of diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure. A licensed clinician monitors liver health and decides whether further tests for scarring are needed.
See a doctor urgently if
You have diabetes, obesity, or high cholesterol and want liver screening
You have ongoing pain in the upper right abdomen
You notice yellowing of the skin or eyes
You have swelling in the abdomen or legs
Blood tests have shown abnormal liver results
Frequently asked questions
What are the first signs of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)?
Early signs often include often no symptoms in early stages, tiredness, discomfort or dull ache in the upper right abdomen. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
Can Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) be treated?
Care centres on managing the underlying metabolic factors, since there is no quick fix. It generally involves gradual weight loss where appropriate, a balanced diet lower in sugar and refined carbohydrates, regular activity, and control of diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure. A licensed clinician monitors liver health and decides whether further tests for scarring are needed.
When should I see a doctor about Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)?
See a doctor promptly if you notice: you have diabetes, obesity, or high cholesterol and want liver screening; you have ongoing pain in the upper right abdomen; you notice yellowing of the skin or eyes; you have swelling in the abdomen or legs; blood tests have shown abnormal liver results.