Understanding Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Understanding Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

21 May, 2025

Importance of Early Detection & Management

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) has become one of the most prevalent liver diseases in the world, particularly in urban areas reporting sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and unhealthy diets. NAFLD is clearly defined as occurring in individuals who consume little or no alcohol.

This condition is defined by excess fat in the liver that may lead to serious issues like non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, cirrhosis, or even liver cancer.

At Sunrise Hospital, everything we do, from our premier physicians to our cutting-edge technologies, we always connect everything back to the health of our patients. With many years of trust, outcomes gained, and thousands of satisfied patients, we take pride as one of the Best Gastroenterology Hospitals in Kochi.

In this blog, we discuss NAFLD, its development, and approach to managing, with direction from the experts at Sunrise Hospital, known as the Best Gastroenterology Hospital in Kochi.

What Is Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease & Why Should You Be Concerned?

NAFLD is a liver disease that is symptomless, where there is excess fat in the liver cells without a history of significant alcohol abuse. NAFLD typically has two forms:

1. Simple fatty liver (steatosis). This is when fat is present, but there is little or no liver inflammation or liver cell damage.

2. Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) is an advanced form of NAFLD, where inflammation and liver cell damage have occurred, which may produce centrilobular fibrosis, and may be associated with cirrhosis.

Since it often presents without symptoms, many individuals are unaware they have the condition. NAFLD is closely linked with metabolic risk factors such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and dyslipidaemia. Recognising and addressing these risk factors early is essential.

Is Early Detection and Understanding of NAFLD Treatment Important?

The early stages of NAFLD are usually reversible, but this window of opportunity narrows as the condition advances. Timely detection can significantly improve outcomes through non-invasive interventions such as dietary adjustments, weight loss, and increased physical activity.

Failing to address NAFLD early may lead to complications that require more intensive treatment, including liver transplant in end-stage liver failure. Understanding treatment options empowers individuals to make informed lifestyle changes and seek appropriate medical care.

Why Should You See a Gastroenterologist for NAFLD?

A gastroenterologist is a specialist trained in diagnosing and treating digestive system disorders, including liver conditions like NAFLD. They have the expertise and access to diagnostic tools such as liver function tests, imaging studies, elastography, and liver biopsy. In addition, they are well-equipped to manage the multifaceted aspects of NAFLD, including metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and obesity.

At Sunrise Hospital, we take pride in being one of the Best Gastroenterology Hospitals in Kochi, providing tailored treatment plans and continuous monitoring to help our patients live healthier lives.

Who Are the Experts Treating NAFLD at Sunrise Hospital?

Our Department of Gastroenterology is led by an accomplished team of medical and surgical gastroenterologists. These professionals are not only academically sound but also bring decades of practical experience in managing liver and digestive diseases.

Meet Some of Our Renowned Experts:

Dr. Jerrin Thomas – Consultant Gastroenterologist & Head of Department

With over 7 years of experience in Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Dr. Jerrin Thomas leads our department with clinical excellence and compassionate care. He holds an MBBS, MD, DM in Gastroenterology, and ESEGH (UK), and has an extensive background working in reputed institutions including Lakeshore Hospital, Sri Ramachandra University, MOSC Medical College, and the Asian Institute of Medical Sciences. His commitment to accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of gastrointestinal and liver conditions ensures the highest standards of patient care at our hospital.

Areas of expertise:

– Chronic liver diseases

– Endoscopic procedures

– Comprehensive GI diagnostics and treatment

Dr. Paul T Joyes – Consultant Gastroenterologist

Dr. Paul T Joyes brings over 4 years of focused experience in Gastroenterology. A graduate of MOSC Medical College, Kolenchery, he went on to complete his MD in Internal Medicine and DM in Gastroenterology from reputed medical institutions. His areas of interest include functional GI disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), IBS, and GERD. He is skilled in both diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures and has served as a Consultant Gastroenterologist at St. Joseph Hospital, Manjummel, and as an Assistant Professor at Meenakshi Medical College.

Areas of expertise:

– NAFLD and lifestyle-related liver conditions

– IBS and functional GI disorders

– Endoscopy and advanced diagnostics

Their commitment and collaborative approach make Sunrise Hospital a trusted name in gastrointestinal and liver care.

Why Is Sunrise Hospital the Best Gastroenterology Hospital in Kochi?

Sunrise Hospital’s Department of Gastroenterology is dedicated to diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive tract and liver with a patient-first approach. We offer:

• State-of-the-art diagnostic imaging, including ultrasound, MRI, CT, and FibroScan.

• Non-invasive assessments such as magnetic resonance elastography (MRE) for fibrosis.

• Personalised treatment plans for every patient.

• Collaborative care from nutritionists, diabetologists and other consultants.

• Round-the-clock emergency services and post-treatment support.

We treat our patients with empathy and precision, making us the preferred choice for individuals seeking the Best Gastroenterology Hospital in Kochi.

What Services Does Sunrise Hospital Offer for Liver and Digestive Health?

We offer comprehensive services under our Gastroenterology Department:

• Diagnostic endoscopy and colonoscopy

• Liver function evaluation

• Imaging and biopsy services

• Nutritional counselling

• Advanced GI and hepatobiliary surgeries

• Management of chronic liver conditions, including hepatitis and cirrhosis

• Treatment for gastrointestinal cancers

Our integrated approach ensures that you receive holistic care for any digestive or liver-related concern.

How Does Sunrise Hospital Take Care of Your Health?

We believe in proactive and preventive healthcare. Our team educates patients on lifestyle changes and regularly monitors their progress to ensure long-term wellness. By integrating medical science with compassionate care, we deliver not just treatments but reassurance and healing.

We also conduct regular awareness campaigns and health check-up drives focused on liver health to encourage early diagnosis and treatment of NAFLD.

What Do Our Patients Say About Sunrise Hospital

1. Thomas Mathew, Kochi:

"I was diagnosed with NAFLD during a routine health check-up. I had no symptoms, but my liver enzymes were high. Sunrise Hospital gave me clear advice and a complete lifestyle plan. The doctors were supportive and never made me feel rushed. A year later, my liver scans show significant improvement. I’m very thankful."

2. Anoop Menon, Thrissur:

"My father developed advanced fatty liver, and we were referred to Sunrise Hospital. The transition of care, right from diagnosis to liver biopsy and treatment, was seamless. Their follow-up system is excellent, and I feel confident we’re in the right hands."

Whether you're looking for early screening, advanced diagnosis, or ongoing management of NAFLD, our hospital is the right place to begin your journey to better liver health.

To book a consultation or know more about our services:

• Call us at: +91 484 2660000

• Email us at: enquiry@sunrisehospital.in

Your health deserves the best – and we are here to provide just that. Choose Sunrise Hospital, the Best Gastroenterology Hospital in Kochi, for expert care and genuine support.