Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the term for a range of conditions caused by a build-up of fat in the liver. As opposed to alcoholic fatty liver disease, NAFLD is not driven by alcohol abuse. It is linked to poor health markers, such as obesity.
The asymptomatic nature of NAFLD means that it is often diagnosed after a blood test called a liver function test, says the NHS.
But blood tests do not always pick up NAFLD.
“The condition may also be spotted during an ultrasound scan of your tummy,” explains the NHS.
This is a type of scan where sound waves are used to create an image of the inside of your body.
Can it be treated?
Unfortunately, there aren’t any specific treatments yet for NAFLD.
“Your doctor will encourage you to make changes to your lifestyle to prevent your condition getting worse,” explains Bupa.
However, as the health body points out, there’s lots of research going on to try to find a treatment, especially for people with the more advanced stages of liver fibrosis and inflammation.
There are also various medicines that are useful in managing problems associated with NAFLD, it adds.