Fatty liver disease – Warning signs and management

Fatty liver disease – Warning signs and management

As the name suggests, fatty liver is a health condition caused by excess fat deposition on the liver. In most cases, people show no symptoms of the condition or face any health issues. However, it can get severe once the disease progresses, necessitating an intervention. But since the liver is an organ with self-healing abilities, changing our lifestyle habits and food choices can play a huge role in recovering from such conditions.

Fatty liver diseases
In a healthy liver, the amount of fat surrounding it is estimated to be 5 to 10% of the liver’s weight. This fat protects the liver against injuries and shock. However, when extra fat accumulates in the liver, it might impact its normal functioning, but it is observed in only a few fatty liver patients. The progression of the condition occurs in four stages:

Simple fatty liver
In this stage, there is a build-up of fat storage in the liver. If the condition does not progress, the initial stages of fatty liver disease are not harmful.

Steatohepatitis
The added fat storage is also accompanied by liver inflammation at this stage. This condition is a bit more severe than the simple fatty liver.

Fibrosis
With further progression of the disease, the continued inflammation of the liver eventually leads to scarring. However, even at this stage, most patients do not experience any variation in liver functioning.

Cirrhosis
With persistent inflammation and scarring, liver functioning is eventually impacted. It is because the scar tissue starts replacing healthy liver tissues and obstructs its function. Cirrhosis occurs when there is long-term damage to the liver. The scar tissue is hard and unyielding, slowing the liver down and eventually stopping its functioning. Cirrhosis can further develop into liver failure or liver cancer.

Causes
In most cases, fatty liver disease occurs due to poor eating and living habits. Lifestyle choices are one of the leading causes behind the increasing occurrence of this condition. However, there are also other factors that put people at an increased risk of getting this condition.

  • Menstrual stage – Menopause is often associated with increased susceptibility to this condition.
  • Body mass – Increased body mass is one of the most common reasons for fatty liver development.
  • High cholesterol levels, high blood pressure, and diabetes are some health conditions that may lead to fatty liver.
  • Sleep disorder – Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where the airway gets blocked, leading to sudden starts and stops in a person’s breathing patterns. It may cause loud and persistent snoring and, in some cases, also leads to fatty liver disease.

Other risk factors
However, some people may not have any underlying health conditions but may still be diagnosed with fatty liver disease. These risk factors may be developed at an advanced stage and put one at a higher risk of developing the condition. They include insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, excessive body mass, or metabolic conditions like excessive cholesterol and high triglyceride levels. Certain prescription treatments might also put one at a higher risk of developing this condition.

Warning signs and symptoms
People are often diagnosed after fatty liver disease has reached the stage of cirrhosis. It is because the condition is usually present without any observable symptoms. For some patients, there may be some noticeable symptoms present. These include

  • Abdominal discomfort or a feeling of fullness in the upper right portion of the stomach.
  • Abdominal symptoms like loss of body mass, lack of appetite, and nausea
  • Since the condition affects the patient’s liver, some show symptoms associated with jaundice, such as yellowness of the whites of the eyes and the skin.
  • Extreme fatigue, a feeling of weakness, and confusion
  • Patients will experience swelling in the abdomen and legs (edema). At times, it might be due to water retention in these regions or triggered by a fluid build-up.

Diagnosis
Fatty liver disease is diagnosed by a trained healthcare professional since the disease does not show any symptoms in most cases. Elevated liver enzymes reported in blood tests indicate a liver disorder. For the confirmation of diagnosis, a doctor may ask some or all of the diagnostic tests given below.

Imaging tests
Computerized tomography (CT) scans or ultrasound tests may be suggested to get a clear picture of the liver and determine its size.

Biopsy 
A liver biopsy may be conducted by taking some liver tissue samples. This testing helps the doctor determine the progress of the disorder.

FibroScan®
This specialized ultrasound test finds the amount of fat and scar tissue in the liver. It allows patients to forego the option of undergoing a biopsy if they are wary of invasive procedures.

Treatment
There is no definitive treatment or remedy that can cure fatty liver disease. Instead, once the disease is diagnosed, doctors are more concerned about managing contributing factors of the condition. If the diagnosis is made during the early stages, it might be possible to reverse the condition with nutritional and lifestyle changes because of the liver’s ability to regenerate. Once patients make healthy choices, the fat deposits on the liver decrease in quantity, and the liver starts to work on reducing inflammation. Changes like these also work in favor of restoring normal liver functioning. These changes are known to substantially improve the patient’s health and the outcome of fatty liver conditions. Patients are usually advised to make healthier food choices, work towards a healthier body mass, treat high cholesterol, triglycerides, and high blood pressure, and take vitamin E supplements to help with diabetes.

Preventive measures
Making alterations to lifestyle choices can significantly contribute to the prevention of fatty liver. These include regular exercise, avoiding or limiting unhealthy food and beverages, maintaining a healthy body mass, and avoiding added sugar from their daily meal plan.

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Known Signs of Hemophilia and Anemia

Bleeding disorders refer to a group of conditions like hemophilia or anemia that interfere with normal blood functions in the body. Hemophilia affects the ability of the blood cells to clot naturally, while anemia lowers hemoglobin count in the red blood cells. These conditions exhibit a unique set of symptoms that can be identified. Early diagnosis helps doctors form a viable healthcare plan. So, it pays to know and identify the following symptoms. Hemophilia and Anemia: Understanding the difference Both conditions are common bleeding disorders. However, anemia & hemophilia signs are distinctly different from each other when it comes to the disease progression. The latter is a genetic disorder that affects the red blood cell’s ability to clot and close wounds. Certain clotting factors in the blood bind with the red blood cells to prevent uncontrolled bleeding. Anemia is a condition where the body lacks sufficient healthy red blood cells in the first place. Also, a low hemoglobin count affects the red blood cell’s ability to carry oxygen to vital organs and extremities via the circulatory system. Genetic mutation triggers most known types of hemophilia, while certain nutritional deficiencies in the body trigger common forms of anemia. Symptoms of hemophilia The absence of essential clotting factors in the blood can trigger a variety of noticeable and unusual symptoms. Uncontrolled bleeding Bleeding is one of the primary symptoms of hemophilia. It can happen under the skin or in the joints. As the red blood cells are unable to bind and clot, this pool of blood can trigger swelling, pain, and tightness in the joints. This symptom is most commonly noticeable in the knees, elbows, and ankles. Blood collecting under the skin can lead to buildups under the muscle and soft tissue to cause more painful bruising. This symptom is called hematoma in medical terminology. Frequent nosebleeds When the bleeding is triggered externally, it can result in frequent nosebleeds that can be difficult to stop. Note that external environmental factors and physical injuries generally cause nosebleeds. So, any unexplained bleeding could indicate a developing condition. Bleeding caused due to cuts, bruises, and vaccinations Lack of essential clotting factor VIII can trigger bleeding from the lightest of impacts, cuts, bruises, or even after losing a tooth. Some people experience sudden bleeding after taking a vaccination. This could be the body’s reaction to producing antibodies, but the strain could be too much to bear, resulting in bleeding from the extremities. Blood in urine or stool Excess blood in the urine or stool is a clear sign of disease progression. The urine and stools appear dark red or even blackish due to the presence of red blood cells mixed with the excreta. Immediate medical assistance is advisable for visual symptoms. Bleeding in infants Complicated pregnancies can be physically taxing for both the mother and the child leading to possible symptoms of hemophilia at birth. But in some rare cases, infants may experience internal bleeding in the head. Symptoms of anemia The most common types of anemia, including iron deficiency anemia and vitamin deficiency anemia, develop due to the lack of nutrients in the body. Therefore, anemia exhibits more physically taxing symptoms as the condition worsens. Tiredness Increased fatigue and weakness for no apparent reason is one of the main indicators of nutritional deficiencies. An unexplained decrease in overall stamina with no physical exertion or any activity during the day could mean low iron in the blood. Without iron, the body cannot produce enough red blood cells. And low hemoglobin means not enough oxygen is being circulated around vital organs in the body, thus resulting in fatigue induced by low energy levels. Respiratory symptoms Experiencing shortness of breath, chest pains, and even noticing an irregular heartbeat could indicate a possible anemic condition. An iron deficiency lowers hemoglobin count, and this means not enough oxygen is being circulated by the blood. Low hemoglobin affects the breathing rate as the body struggles to extract more oxygen resulting in shortness of breath. The heart must also put in extra efforts to pump the low hemoglobin blood forcefully, thus resulting in irregular heartbeats. Doctors refer to this condition as heart palpitations. These symptoms can also induce chest pains due to the sheer stress being put on the organ. Pale skin and damaged hair Skin and hair symptoms are visible indicators of a developing anemia condition. An iron deficiency results in low red blood cell production and indirectly affects the shade of the skin. Pale skin is noticeably visible around the face, gums, lower lips, lower eyelids, and even on the nails. This symptom is more visually obvious among people who flaunt a lighter skin tone. Also, hair thinning, hair fall, and a damaged scalp is a clear sign of iron deficiency. Treatment options Note that anemia & hemophilia signs never overlap. Once the primary indicators are confirmed, doctors quickly suggest blood tests to identify the leading causes or triggers. Knowing the differences can help with prompt diagnosis even though both the conditions are bleeding disorders. It is even possible to recover from common forms of anemia within 2 to 3 months. Hemophilia is a more serious bleeding disorder that is treated by introducing the missing clotting factors. Doctors also suggest prescriptions that help stimulate the body to release more clotting factors. However, a transfusion offers more promising results for moderate to severe progression. Effective preventive measures and home remedies can help lower the risk of bleeding. These conditions cannot be completely cured. But it is possible to improve the quality of life by incorporating healthy lifestyle habits. Prescriptions and treatments only help slow down the disease progression.

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Essential Foods to Eat and Avoid for Managing Myeloma

Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that mainly affects the plasma cells in the body. Plasma cells are a crucial part of the immune system that help ward off infections by producing antibodies. These antibodies identify and attack infection-causing germs, bacteria, and viruses. Myeloma causes an uncontrolled mutation of the plasma cells. There is no cure for the condition, but it is possible to manage symptoms and improve the outlook. Foods rich in fiber One of the significant side effects of multiple myeloma symptoms is constipation. The inability to pass regular bowels is triggered during chemotherapy treatment for cancer. Hence, it becomes necessary to include more foods rich in soluble fibers. Soluble fibers are digested easily, help loosen bowel movements, and also lower the risk of severe pain and uneasiness caused by constipation. Apples, berries, prunes, figs, raisins, peas, carrots, celery, artichokes, beans, broccoli, oatmeal, and assorted whole grains are rich in soluble fibers. It is also advisable to increase water consumption as staying hydrated helps break down bowels and flush out toxins from the body. These changes boost immunity and help speed up recovery. Foods rich in antioxidants Cancer causes healthy cells to break down once the mutation spreads, resulting in oxidative stress. Antioxidants prevent these cells from deteriorating and include crucial nutrients like phytochemicals, flavonoids, and carotenoids in nutritious vegetables and fruits. Antioxidants also lower free radicals in the system that cause cell damage and counter any inflammation to manage symptoms of progressing multiple myeloma. Kale, brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, and cauliflower are among the best cruciferous vegetables and leafy greens to include daily foods. Many of these veggies boast potent isothiocyanates that counter myeloma. In addition, assorted colored berries, including blueberries, cranberries, strawberries, and cherries, are all rich in natural polyphenols and flavonoids that also fight inflammation and lower the risk of oxidative stress. Foods rich in iron A low red blood cell (RBC) count triggered due to anemia is a common complication that one can develop alongside multiple myeloma. This is mainly a side effect of the cancerous plasma cell mutation that constricts the space for healthy RBCs to grow. As a result, cancer can lower hemoglobin count, triggering symptoms like fatigue, persistent weakness, and chills. Tropical fruits, including mangos, guava, pineapples, and papayas, can naturally boost iron intake. Bell peppers, sweet potatoes, kale, and broccoli are potent vegetables to boost iron in the bloodstream. Also, certain meats, seafood, and legumes like red meats, clams, liver, sardines, spinach, beans, chickpeas, lentils, and assorted nuts should form part of an anti-myeloma nutrition. Foods rich in folates, vitamin D, and Vitamin B12 As multiple myeloma affects the production of red blood cells, it is necessary to include foods rich in a nutrient called folate. Folate is one of the essential B vitamins absorbed by the bone marrow to naturally boost the production of red and white cells. Spinach, asparagus, broccoli, beans, lentils, and black-eyed peas are rich sources of folates that the body can absorb quickly. A vitamin B12 deficiency can also affect the bone marrow’s ability to produce red and white blood cells, thus compromising immunity. Rich dark meats, seafood, and poultry can help replenish the lost B12 vitamins. Popular sources include liver, beef, clams, fish, eggs, and dairy. Even fortified breakfast cereals, soy, flax, and almond milk can boost daily B12 intake to lower the risk of anemia in multiple myeloma. In addition to folates and vitamin B12, it is also important for the body to absorb vitamin D to promote better bone health. Salmon, tuna, sardines, egg yolks, and fortified juices/snacks can boost vitamin D intake among adults. Even stepping out in the sun for just a few minutes allows the body to naturally absorb much-needed vitamin D. Kidney friendly changes Multiple Myeloma cancer can develop and spread rapidly, affecting other organs in the body. Kidney disease risk is significantly high; if left unchecked, cancer could cause permanent organ failure. Multiple myeloma triggers a low red blood cell count, thus causing the breakdown of bones. This triggers a rapid release of calcium in the bloodstream forcing the kidneys to work hard to filter out the excess. The cancer plasma cells release excess proteins in the bloodstream that the kidneys struggle to filter out, increasing the risk of organ failure. Nutritionists advise cutting back sodium, potassium, and fatty proteins from daily foods to lower the risk of kidney failure while treating multiple myeloma. Foods rich in preventive nutrients One can additionally include many foods in their anti-myeloma nutrition plan to promote a healthy outlook. Plants, vegetables, and fruits are the most nutritious source of certain cytotoxic compounds called ursolic acid. This potent compound boast cancer inhibiting properties from helping slow down the progression of the disease and manage symptoms. Basil and rosemary, two common herbs used for daily cooking, are loaded with these compounds. Blueberries, apples, and cranberry also boast ursolic and pterostilbene to lower the risk of developing tumors. Also, curcumin, a common spice used in several cuisines, boasts many anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Foods to avoid Since multiple myeloma attacks the immune system making it weaker, eliminating certain foods that could make you sick is important. Also, it can help lower the risk of multiple myeloma flare-ups. Foods rich in sodium, potassium, processed sugars, raw meats, raw fruits, and raw vegetables with the skin should be avoided for consumption. Even raw slices of seafood like sushi and sashimi are trigger foods that can result in complications as cancer progresses. It is also essential to boost one’s immunity for the body to counter and slow down the progression of multiple myeloma. Practicing general hygiene, safe cooking, and portioning of meals are all lifestyle changes suggested during multiple myeloma treatment. 

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