Part of diabetes management is ensuring that no other diabetes-related complications happen. It involves taking care of internal body organs, ensuring that irregular blood sugar levels won’t affect bodily functions. One such body organs that need the most attention is the liver.
When you have diabetes, you are prone to having liver disease. NAFLD or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is common to individuals with type 2 diabetes. It refers to the accumulation of excess fat in the organ from its name.
Medical experts conclude that NAFLD plays a significant role in the development of type 2 diabetes. This is because the liver regulates blood glucose. However, the presence of excess fat in the organ lessens insulin response. It causes the build-up of sugar in the blood. As a result, type 2 diabetes develops.
Without immediate treatment, complications can happen. One of these complications is cirrhosis. It refers to the scarring of the liver. Besides cirrhosis, severe inflammation can also affect the organ, resulting in liver malfunctioning.
What are the symptoms of NAFLD?
Unfortunately, there are no specified symptoms of NAFLD. This makes it difficult to diagnose the condition. However, reports say that individuals who encounter NAFLD feel severe pain in their abdomen. This is not enough sign to diagnose NAFLD. That’s why regular check-up is necessary for individuals with diabetes.
During your visit to the doctor, you may ask if your liver enzymes level has increased. A higher level of liver enzymes signifies NAFLD. Besides this, you can also request an ultrasound from your doctor. This will help recognize the build-up of fat in your liver.
What to do?
Aside from following the necessary step to managing your diabetes, several steps are available to prevent NAFLD from developing. These are as follows:
- Besides insulin shots, discuss other things to control your blood sugar with your healthcare professional.
- Obesity can cause NAFLD. In line with this, take a few minutes to exercise at home. Losing weight helps in preventing NAFLD.
- Receive medical advice to ensure your blood pressure does not increase abnormally.
- Avoid drinking too much alcohol.
Look after your liver. If you experience a slight pain in your abdomen, report this to your healthcare professional immediately. Reporting your condition is necessary, most especially if you have diabetes.
