Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasing in large numbers throughout the world, especially in Western higher developed countries. Affecting an estimated 30 to 40 percent of the U.S. population, it is the most common form of chronic liver disease in our country. The term “fatty liver” refers to the excess fat found in the liver unrelated to alcohol consumption (alcoholic fatty liver) or other liver damage causes. It happens to middle-aged individuals with a high risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome ( a cluster of abdominal fat, high blood pressure, insulin resistance, and high triglycerides). About 20 percent of NAFLD individuals have a more serious type referred to as NASH (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis) in which there is serious liver inflammation and damage. This may lead to cirrhosis, liver cancer, or liver failure.
The leading cause of U.S. acute liver failure is an overdose of acetaminophen found in Tylenol, other common pain relievers/cold and flu remedies, and prescription meds.
A cautionary statement: Mayo Clinic (February 2018 Newsletter on the subject of Liver Health) explains that a new study of Proton Pump inhibitors (PPIs) found that these meds promote the liver’s damage and disease. Associated with the overgrowth of certain liver harmful bacteria, these PPIs include Prilosec, Nexium, and Prevacid used for acid reflux disease.
As we age and our health becomes more fragile, an excess of medications can put a tremendous load on our liver’s ability to metabolize the chemicals. It is critical that we use any form of medications only when necessary and in the proper dosage. ***Do not mix alcohol consumption with meds. Become an educated consumer and talk to your doctor and your pharmacist about the proper use of all of your medicines.
Chronic alcohol abuse, immune system problems, genetic factors, and numerous other causes, among which are cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, and sarcoidosis, can produce liver damage, as well. Diagnosis of liver problems usually is done with specific tests completed after an initial physical exam. These consist of blood work, imaging tests, and liver biopsies.
Mayo Clinic continues, “Even if you already have liver disease, the following steps may prevent further damage, and may (be used to) reverse the damage in cases where it hasn’t progressed too far.”
1. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eat healthfully (using an abundance of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) and exercise regularly. If needed, lose weight.
2. Limit or avoid alcohol consumption.
3. Use all medications as directed. Also be knowledgeable about risks of taking vitamin and dietary supplements and herbal remedies.
4. Minimize exposure to toxins. Don’t smoke and avoid second-hand smoke. Limit your contact with all chemicals to well-ventilated areas. Wear gloves, long sleeves, and a mask. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Keep your vaccinations up-to-date. This applies especially to Hepatitis A and B Vaccines.
6. Avoid risky behaviors and exposure to blood and body fluids to avoid hepatitis viruses.
Mayo adds “A liver transplant replaces your liver with a whole, healthy liver from a deceased donor or with part of a liver from a living donor. Thanks to the amazing regenerative ability of liver cells, the partial liver then grows in both the living donor and the recipient.”
Wall Street Journal’s 2018 article “For Liver Transplants, Less-Invasive Donor Surgery” mentions that “Advocates say the (laparoscopic incisions) method could get more living donors to come forward.” Presently 14,000 to 15,000 Americans are on the waiting list for donor livers with an average wait time of 11 months. This waiting time has led researchers to look for alternatives. Mayo Clinic doctors are developing a bioartificial liver and working on regenerative treatments. The clinic finalizes “A combination of increased screening, lifestyle changes, and new medications may improve outcomes for people with liver disease.”
