A related discussion,
liver problems - unexplained was started.
Thanks for your reassurance! I hope it is as simple as reflux that prevacid or something would help. I have recently started on prevacid and it does seem to help. Depending what they find on Upper GI the Dr. said they might follow it with an EGD and pancreatic CT.
It is possible that your lump in the throat could be caused by reflux. It is called globus sensation. You mentioned belching a lot. If the acid goes up your esopahgus into your throat it could irritate these delicate tissues, and make it feel like you have a lump in your throat. Does it go away when you drink water or eat food? Is is worse when you just try to swallow without food? I would have it looked at by an ent or have a scope down your throat done by a Gi specialist, instead of the upper GI series. They could rule out the bad stuff dealing with the lump sensation, and reassure you on this issue. Treatment for this is acid suppression through PPis and other acid reducers. It also is made worse by anxiety. I hated it when I had it, but it eventually goes away.
My last labwork was in July. AST 22 (range 10-42). ALT 21 (10-60 range). To me that looks normal. However the Dr. just said ALT 21 indicates a mild case. I don't really understand that. I haven't talked to anyone who seems paticularly concerned. I don't know if there is a hepatotologist in this area or not. I just want to get back to my life and quit worrying about this.
Do you recall what your liver enzyme readings were? Your AST/ALT numbers? Those numbers give an indication of the inflammation of your liver. You seem to be having some symptoms, the "lump in throat" symptom is particularly troubling, I'd follow up on that and have them check your throat to make sure they don't see any signs of varices. Have you seen a Heptologist? I'd recommend it, they specialize in the liver and it ould behoove you to see one to better access your situation. In the early stages fatty liver is benign however it is a progressive condition and needs to be taken very seriously and steps need to be taken so that you can remove that fat from your liver through top nutrition and exercise. Here is a link from the Mayo clinic that has a lot of info, maybe that will be helpful. You can start right away and follow a liver friendly diet and maintain a daily exercise plan.
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease/DS00577
To answer your questions:
1) Fatty liver can be caused by alcohol, or associated with obesity and elevated triglycerides. If the liver enzymes are negative, this is less concerning.
2) An ALT of 21 suggests a mild case.
3) Serial monitoring of the liver enzymes is recommended.
4) It is normally a condition that comes on gradually.
5) If not associated with alcohol, it can be treated with weight loss and diet modification.
6) Yes, if it is not appropriate treated, the condition can worsen.
7) This is not an uncommon condition. I agree with the HIDA scan and upper GI series as additional tests.
Followup with your personal physician is essential.
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Kevin, M.D.
kevinmd_