Liver disease: NHS Doctor talks about link with alcohol
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The condition is a leading cause of liver-related illness and death around the globe, affecting nearly a third of the population to date, according to new findings. Unrelenting exhaustion can be a sign of several underlying diseases, but when it strikes first thing in the morning, it may be pointing to liver disease.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is the term for a range of conditions caused by a build-up of fat in the liver.
It is clinically associated with a number of symptoms, including abdominal pain, nausea and yellowing of the skin, but one of the most encountered complications is fatigue.
Fatigue is a complex symptom that encompasses a range of complaints including lethargy, malaise and exhaustion, according to the Canadian Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
Fatigue that strikes first thing in the morning could be hinting at an underlying issue involving the liver, the Mirror reports.
It can also result in issues regulating mood and emotions, or lead to social and relationship problems.
If fatigue persists, you should see a GP, as the longer NAFLD is left untreated, the greater the risk of liver scarring.
It comes as scientists in Canada have warned that the rise in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease cases is exceeding expectations and growing at an alarming rate.
Abdel-Aziz Shaheen, and colleagues with the University of Calgary, said: “Greater awareness of NAFLD and the development of cost-effective risk stratification are needed to address the growing burning of NAFLD.”
How to avoid liver diseaseThe most effective treatment for liver disease is weight loss, as it prevents a build-up of fatty cells inside the liver.
Some studies show that the Mediterranean diet is particularly helpful to decrease the amount of fat stored inside the liver.
The diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes, and replaces butter with olive or canola oil.
“Control over health conditions that might also affect your liver, and check with your doctor if you might have other underlying, treatable diseases contributing to your fatty liver,” adds Harvard Health.
It adds that regular screenings are important for liver cancer in individuals who already have cirrhosis.
Medications that are toxic to the liver, including herbs, and supplements should not be taken for too long, particularly among individuals who drink regularly.
Finally, aerobic exercise can also lead to decreased amounts of fat in the liver, so it is best to couple a healthy diet with regular physical activity.
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