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NAFLD

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a condition where excess fat accumulates in the liver of people drinking little or no alcohol. Early detection and lifestyle changes, combined with expert care at GastroDoxs, can prevent progression and restore liver health.

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Rishi Chadha

About the Expert

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

What Is NAFLD?

NAFLD stands for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. It occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver of people who drink little or no alcohol. Some people only have mild fat accumulation, while others develop a more serious form called nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Early detection can help protect your liver and prevent progression.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

  • Obesity or recent weight gain
  • Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance
  • High cholesterol or elevated triglycerides
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Unhealthy eating habits and lack of exercise

Signs and Symptoms

  • Often no symptoms in early stages
  • Feeling tired or weak
  • Discomfort or pain in the upper-right abdomen
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Enlarged liver detected during a physical exam

How Dr. Rishi Chadha Diagnoses NAFLD

Dr. Rishi Chadha uses a step-by-step approach:

1. Medical History and Lifestyle Review

He reviews your health history, alcohol intake, diet, exercise habits, and risk factors.

2. Physical Exam

He palpates and examines the abdomen for liver enlargement or tenderness.

3. Blood Tests

He checks liver enzymes (ALT, AST), rules out other causes of liver injury, and assesses metabolic markers.

4. Imaging Studies

  • Ultrasound to detect fat buildup and assess liver texture.
  • FibroScan- (transient elastography) to measure liver stiffness and fat content.

5. Liver Biopsy (Advanced Testing, if needed)

In select cases, a biopsy confirms NASH, gauges inflammation, and checks for fibrosis or scarring.

Rishi Chadha
Treatment
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Our Houston team offers a full range of care for fatty liver disease.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

  • Safe weight loss with manageable goals
  • A NAFLD-friendly diet featuring lean protein, whole grains, and vegetables
  • Daily activity like walking or light strength exercises
  • Cutting back on sugars, refined carbs, and processed fats

2. Medications

  • Vitamin E to help reduce liver inflammation in select patients
  • Pioglitazone for certain patients diagnosed with NASH
  • Access to clinical trials for newer, investigational treatments

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

  • FibroScan- to track liver fat and stiffness over time
  • Endoscopic procedures for addressing related digestive issues
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Rishi Chadha

About the Author

Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between NAFLD and NASH?

NASH is a more serious form of NAFLD marked by liver inflammation and possible scarring.

Can NAFLD be reversed?

Yes. Many people improve with weight loss, a healthier diet, and regular exercise.

What foods should I avoid?

Limit sugary drinks, fried foods, red meat, and packaged snacks.

Will I need a liver biopsy?

Only if blood tests and imaging don-t give a clear diagnosis of NASH.

Does weight loss really help?

Yes. Losing just 5%-10% of your body weight can reduce liver fat and inflammation.

Can kids get NAFLD?

Yes. It's becoming more common in children with obesity, and early intervention is key.

How often do I need liver checks?

Your doctor may recommend blood tests and imaging every 6-12 months, depending on your condition.

Is NAFLD inherited?

It can run in families, but lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise play a larger role.

Should I take supplements?

Only if prescribed. Dr. Chadha may recommend Vitamin E or other supplements when appropriate.

Can I get NAFLD if I-m not overweight?

Yes. Even lean individuals can develop NAFLD, especially with poor diet or metabolic issues.

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