Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.

The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver, not caused by alcohol consumption. NAFLD affects up to 25% of people worldwide and is a leading cause of liver disease, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.

Causes and Risk Factors

NAFLD occurs when the liver cannot effectively break down and remove excess fat from the body, leading to fat accumulation. Several risk factors can contribute to NAFLD, including obesity, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. In addition, some genetic factors and medications can increase the risk of NAFLD.

Symptoms

NAFLD usually does not cause any noticeable symptoms in its early stages, and the condition is often discovered incidentally during routine medical check-ups or imaging tests. However, as the disease progresses, some people may experience symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal pain, and swelling in the legs and abdomen.

Complications

If left untreated, NAFLD can lead to serious complications, including liver inflammation, scarring, and cirrhosis, which can increase the risk of liver failure and liver cancer. People with NAFLD are also at a higher risk of developing heart disease and diabetes.

Prevention and Treatment

Lifestyle changes are the cornerstone of prevention and treatment of NAFLD. This includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight loss for those who are overweight or obese. Medications such as vitamin E, pioglitazone, and pentoxifylline may also be used to treat NAFLD in some cases.

Possibility of Oriental Medicine

Oriental medicine, which includes acupuncture, acupressure, and herbal remedies, has been used for thousands of years to treat various medical conditions, including liver disease. Although research on the effectiveness of Oriental medicine for NAFLD is limited, some studies have shown promising results.

Acupuncture, for example, has been shown to improve liver function and reduce inflammation in people with NAFLD. Similarly, some herbal remedies, such as milk thistle, have been found to have liver-protective effects.

However, it is important to note that Oriental medicine should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment, and anyone considering using these remedies should consult with a qualified healthcare provider.

Conclusion

In conclusion, NAFLD is a common condition that can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Prevention and treatment involve lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight loss, as well as medications in some cases. While research on the effectiveness of Oriental medicine for NAFLD is limited, some studies have shown promising results, and anyone considering using these remedies should consult with a qualified healthcare provider.

References