Fatty changes in Liver

Dear Ask The Doctor: I am facing problem of Acidity, gastric and constipation. Also, my waist size or stomach is getting big. I undergone Ultrasound and LFT test. As per ultrasound report: Liver: "Normal in size-129 mm and echo-texture is increased. Fatty changes in Liver. No mass or abscess seen. Intrahepatic canaliculi are normal". Other abdomen parts are normal. LFT test is ok and showing normal reports. Sugar or Glucose level in blood is normal. I am non-alcoholic and pure vegetarian and I have a sitting job of 10-12 hours daily. Please advise the remedy of my problem (Acidity, Gas, Constipation and Liver increase). Is this a symptom of Hepatitis?

Dear Rahul: Your ultrasound report is suggestive of fatty liver disease. Fatty liver disease is a form of chronic hepatitis which is observed in people with history of alcohol consumption, however in some cases it may also be present with an alcohol history known as Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Risk factors of NAFLD include obesity, diabetes mellitus and hyperlipidemia. You have also features of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

The primary treatment of NAFLD and GERD is weight management. Lifestyle modification to achieve weight loss is central in the aspect of management  and should include calorie restriction and adequate exercise.

Symptom of GERD which include abdominal bloating, pain may be treated by taking antacids such as H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors. If your symptoms are not better with these measures, then I would suggest that you consult your doctor for an upper GI endoscopy.