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Fatty Liver

At GastroDoxs in Houston, our highly-rated expert team offers fatty liver evaluation and personalized treatment plans, using advanced imaging and lifestyle guidance to help patients reverse liver fat buildup, improve health, and receive trusted local care tailored to your community.

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Harris County Medical Society
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Houston Methodist leading Medicine
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Bharat Pothuri
Symptoms

What is Fatty Liver?

Fatty liver, also known as hepatic steatosis, occurs when excess fat builds up in liver cells. It can range from simple fat accumulation to NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis) and is coded under fatty liver disease ICD-10 code K76.0 for NAFLD. At GastroDoxs, your trusted gastroenterologist in Houston, we use fatty liver ultrasounds and expert evaluation to catch it early-whether it's alcohol-related (AFLD), metabolic (NAFLD) or the rare acute fatty liver of pregnancy.

Common Symptoms

Fatty liver often causes no symptoms at first. As the condition advances, you might notice:

  • Persistent fatigue or general weakness
  • Dull ache or fullness in the upper right abdomen
  • An enlarged liver felt as a "full" sensation
  • Bloating, indigestion or nausea
  • Puffiness or redness in the face (sometimes called "fatty liver face")
  • Mild jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)

Causes

Several factors increase your risk of developing fatty liver:

  • Obesity and insulin resistance
  • Diets high in sugar, refined carbs or unhealthy fats
  • Type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome
  • Excessive alcohol use leading to AFLD
  • Rapid weight loss or very low-calorie diets
  • Acute fatty liver of pregnancy in expectant mothers
Treatment

Treatment Options for Fatty Liver in Houston

Treatment includes lifestyle changes and medical care:

  • Weight loss: Losing 5-10% of your body weight can significantly improve liver health under the guidance of a fatty liver specialist near Houston.
  • Diet plan: Personalized nutrition plans at GastroDoxs-your trusted gastroenterologist in Houston-focus on leafy greens, lean proteins, whole grains and low-sugar fruits to reduce liver fat.
  • 7-day meal plan: A structured one-week menu jumpstarts healthy eating habits and supports non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (ICD-10 K76.0) reversal.
  • Supplements: Vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids may be recommended to support liver function when used under medical supervision.
  • Monitoring: Regular fatty liver ultrasounds and blood tests (ALT, AST) help you and your doctor track liver health and treatment progress.
  • Medications: Though no FDA-approved drug exists yet, off-label therapies for inflammation or fibrosis can be prescribed as part of a comprehensive care plan.

Why Choose GastroDoxs?

As the leading fatty liver specialist near Houston, GastroDoxs delivers patient-centered care for fatty liver disease. Our board-certified gastroenterologist in Houston uses state-of-the-art fatty liver ultrasounds to detect and quantify hepatic steatosis, follows the latest fatty liver disease ICD-10 guidelines, and addresses "fatty liver face" symptoms with targeted lifestyle and nutrition plans. From personalized diet and exercise coaching to thoughtful follow-up, our approach helps you reverse fatty liver and maintain long-term liver health.

Don't wait-schedule your consultation with GastroDoxs today and take the first step toward a healthier liver!

9K

Patients Treated

We've successfully treated more than 9K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

Bharat Pothuri

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ICD-10 code for fatty liver disease?

The ICD-10 code for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is K76.0. For alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD), the codes range from K70.0 to K70.4, depending on the specific stage and complications.

Can fatty liver be reversed?

Yes. With targeted lifestyle changes-such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and management of conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol-many patients can reverse fatty liver and restore normal liver function.

How long does it take to reverse fatty liver?

Most people begin to see improvements within 3 to 6 months when following a consistent plan of healthy eating, weight loss, and physical activity. Individual results may vary based on the severity of fat buildup and adherence to recommendations.

What is a fatty liver ultrasound?

A fatty liver ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to assess fat accumulation, inflammation, or scarring in the liver. At GastroDoxs in Houston, we offer high-resolution fatty liver ultrasounds to monitor your liver health over time.

What are good foods to eat for fatty liver?

Recommended foods include leafy greens, whole grains, lean proteins (like fish or chicken), healthy fats (such as olive oil and nuts), and low-sugar fruits. These choices support weight loss and help reduce liver fat.

What is fatty infiltration of the liver?

Fatty infiltration of the liver refers to the abnormal buildup of fat within liver cells. It's the hallmark of both non-alcoholic and alcoholic fatty liver disease and can lead to inflammation or fibrosis if left unaddressed.

Are there any drugs for fatty liver disease?

Currently, no FDA-approved medications specifically target fatty liver disease. However, off-label use of certain supplements or drugs (e.g., vitamin E, pioglitazone) may be considered under close guidance from a fatty liver specialist.

Can fatty liver affect the face?

Some individuals notice facial puffiness or swelling-often called "fatty liver face". This is due to fluid shifts and mild inflammation, not actual fat deposits in facial tissues.

What is the life expectancy with fatty liver disease?

With early diagnosis, regular follow-up, and healthy lifestyle habits, most people with fatty liver disease can expect a normal lifespan. Timely intervention prevents progression to cirrhosis or other complications.

Where can I find a fatty liver specialist near Houston?

GastroDoxs in Houston specializes in comprehensive fatty liver care. Our board-certified gastroenterologists offer fatty liver ultrasounds, personalized nutrition plans, and ongoing support. Book your appointment with a trusted fatty liver specialist near Houston today.

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