Dr. Fernando Lemos, a coloproctologist, discusses fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis. He explains that it occurs when fat accumulates in liver cells, exceeding 10% of the liver's composition. The condition can be asymptomatic, but common symptoms include discomfort, nausea, and slow digestion.
The doctor identifies common causes of hepatic steatosis, including:
* Excessive alcohol consumption
* Obesity
* Sedentary lifestyle
* Poor diet (high in processed foods, fat, and sugar)
* Certain medications (e.g., corticosteroids, tamoxifen)
* Thyroid problems (hypothyroidism)
* Bariatric surgery
Dr. Lemos emphasizes the importance of diagnosing and treating hepatic steatosis, as it can progress to more severe conditions, such as inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer. He recommends the following treatment measures:
* Losing weight (0.5-1 kg per week)
* Engaging in physical activity (at least 6 times a week)
* Avoiding fried foods, fats, and processed snacks
* Reducing carbohydrate intake
* Taking medications that protect the liver (e.g., herbal remedies, vitamin B12)
The doctor also advises patients with dyslipidemia (high cholesterol and triglycerides) to take specific medications to lower these levels, while being cautious of potential interactions with liver function.
Here are the key facts extracted from the text:
1. Fernando Lemos is a coloproctologist specializing in diseases of the intestine, rectum, and anus.
2. He is discussing hepatic steatosis, also known as fatty liver disease.
3. Hepatic steatosis occurs when there is more than 10% fat in the liver cells.
4. The main causes of hepatic steatosis are excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.
5. Other factors that can contribute to hepatic steatosis include a poor diet, certain medications, and thyroid problems.
6. Symptoms of hepatic steatosis may include gas, discomfort, and nausea, but many people do not show any symptoms.
7. Hepatic steatosis can be diagnosed through blood tests, imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans, and liver biopsies.
8. If left untreated, hepatic steatosis can lead to inflammation, fibrosis, and cirrhosis of the liver.
9. Treatment for hepatic steatosis includes losing weight, increasing physical activity, and avoiding fried foods and snacks.
10. Medications may be prescribed to protect the liver and reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
11. Herbal remedies such as milk thistle and vitamin B12 may also be used to protect the liver.
12. Statins, a type of cholesterol-lowering medication, may not be suitable for people with hepatic steatosis and high triglyceride levels.
13. A healthy diet and lifestyle can help prevent and treat hepatic steatosis.
14. Regular monitoring of liver function and cholesterol levels is necessary for people with hepatic steatosis.
15. In severe cases, liver transplantation may be necessary.