NAFLD and cirrhosis: what to know

NAFLD may progress from fat storage to inflammation and fibrosis, which is scar tissue. Cirrhosis is the stage at which extensive scarring changes blood flow and the liver’s ability to perform its tasks. Some people have few symptoms early on. A clinician may review liver function tests, blood counts, clotting, imaging such as an abdominal ultrasound, and sometimes specialist scans or a biopsy. Diabetes, obesity, alcohol use, viral hepatitis, and medicines can alter liver risk, so the assessment should consider the whole person rather than one result.

Keep scheduled liver reviews and tell the care team about every medicine, supplement, and alcohol exposure. Do not start a detox product or stop prescribed treatment without advice. A balanced eating pattern, suitable activity, and support with weight management may reduce strain on metabolic health; nutrition counselling can make this practical. Ask whether you need vaccination, screening for complications, or changes to diabetes treatment. Avoid raw or undercooked foods if your clinician has advised extra infection precautions.

Get urgent help for vomiting blood, black stools, new confusion or extreme sleepiness, sudden severe abdominal swelling, fainting, or yellow skin with worsening illness. Contact your clinician promptly for increasing ankle swelling, breathlessness, reduced appetite, repeated vomiting, fever, or a rapid change in alertness. Cirrhosis can make infections and bleeding more serious, so do not wait for a routine appointment when these symptoms appear.

How much scarring is present, and how was it measured? Which tests will monitor liver function? Do I need screening for bleeding, fluid build-up, or liver cancer? Which medicines, supplements, foods, and alcohol should I avoid?