What Are the Risks and Complications of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)?

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is a growing health concern across the U.S., including right here in Santa Monica and the greater Los Angeles area. It’s estimated that 1 in 4 adults in the United States has NAFLD—a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver of people who drink little or no alcohol.

At the gastroenterology and liver disease practice of Dr. David P. Yamini, we specialize in diagnosing and managing NAFLD, helping patients understand their risk and avoid long-term complications. Dr. Yamini is double board-certified in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine and is recognized as a leading expert in liver care in the Santa Monica medical community.

What Causes NAFLD?

NAFLD is most commonly linked to metabolic health issues, including:

• Obesity
• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Poor diet and sedentary lifestyle

Over time, fat accumulates in the liver cells, leading to inflammation and, in some cases, liver damage. Genetics, certain medications, and rapid weight loss may also contribute to the development of NAFLD.

Symptoms to Watch For

NAFLD is often called a “silent” condition because many people don’t experience symptoms until the disease has progressed. However, some signs may include:

• Fatigue
• Discomfort or dull pain in the upper right abdomen
• Unexplained weight loss
• Elevated liver enzymes on routine bloodwork

If left untreated, NAFLD can progress to Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH), where liver inflammation and scarring occur. This can lead to fibrosis, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer.

Risk Factors for NAFLD

NAFLD can affect anyone, but it’s more common in:

• Adults over 40
• Individuals with obesity or insulin resistance
• People with a family history of liver disease
• Those with high triglycerides or low HDL cholesterol
• Patients with sleep apnea or PCOS

In the Santa Monica area, where lifestyle-related conditions are increasingly prevalent, proactive liver screening is essential, especially for at-risk individuals.

Treatment and Management Options

Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications for NAFLD, but the good news is that lifestyle changes are highly effective. Treatment focuses on:

• Losing 5–10% of body weight
• Managing blood sugar and cholesterol
• Increasing physical activity
• Following a Mediterranean or low-carb diet

Dr. Yamini works with each patient to create a personalized care plan that may include nutritional counseling, weight management support, and monitoring with liver function tests and imaging.

Long-Term Outlook

With early intervention, NAFLD is often reversible. However, if left unaddressed, about 20% of people with NAFLD may develop NASH, and a portion of those could progress to advanced liver disease or cirrhosis. That’s why timely diagnosis and expert guidance are key to protecting your long-term health.

Schedule Your Liver Health Evaluation in Santa Monica

If you’re concerned about fatty liver disease or have risk factors, schedule an appointment with Dr. David Yamini in Santa Monica. With extensive experience in gastroenterology and liver care, Dr. Yamini offers advanced diagnostic tools and compassionate, expert care to help you take control of your liver health.