Acute fatty liver disease in pregnancy (aflp) – causes, symptoms, treatment and risk to the child

Pregnancy is a time full of joy and hope, but unfortunately, sometimes it is also associated with some serious health problems. One of them is acute fatty liver disease in pregnancy, known as AFLP (Acute Fatty Liver of Pregnancy). It is a rare but potentially serious disease that may threaten the life of both the future mother and the child. In this article, we will discuss what AFLP is, its causes, symptoms, treatment, and potential risks to the baby.

Acute fatty liver disease in pregnancy (aflp) – what is it?

AFLP is a rare disease that occurs during pregnancy and is characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver. This serious disease can lead to liver damage and many other complications, which poses a real threat to the health of the mother and child.

Acute fatty liver disease in pregnancy (aflp) – causes

The causes of AFLP are not fully understood, but there are certain risk factors that may predispose to the development of this disease. Belong to them:

• Genetic predispositions
• High blood pressure during pregnancy
• First pregnancy
• Double pregnancy (twins)
• Pre-pregnancy condition (arterial hypertension, diabetes)
• Excess protein in the diet

Although the exact causes are not yet fully understood, there is a link between hormonal changes in a pregnant woman’s body and the onset of AFLP.

Acute fatty liver disease in pregnancy (aflp) – symptoms

AFLP can be difficult to diagnose because many of its symptoms are similar to other liver diseases and common pregnancy symptoms. However, there are some characteristic symptoms that are worth paying attention to:

• Abdominal pain, especially in the upper right quadrant
• Nausea and vomiting
• Tiredness
• High blood pressure
• Swelling
• Vision problems
• Impaired liver function

If you experience any of these symptoms, especially during the third trimester of pregnancy, consult your doctor immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can be key to avoiding serious complications.

Acute fatty liver disease in pregnancy (aflp) – is the baby at risk?

Acute fatty liver disease in pregnancy may pose a real threat to the baby. The increased risk of premature birth, low birth weight and other complications may affect the health and development of the newborn. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor the pregnancy under the supervision of a specialist and take appropriate precautions.

Acute fatty liver disease in pregnancy (aflp) – diagnosis, treatment and diet

The diagnosis of AFLP requires a thorough clinical evaluation, laboratory tests and imaging. Your doctor may order blood tests to help assess liver function and imaging tests, such as ultrasound, to assess the health of the organ.

Treatment for AFLP involves hospitalization and monitoring the condition of the mother and child. In case of complications, it may be necessary to take interventional measures, such as a cesarean section or pharmacological treatment. Diet also plays an important role in the treatment of AFLP. It is advisable to limit the consumption of fats, salt and simple sugars, as well as to increase the consumption of protein and vitamins.

Your suggestions

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, it is important to monitor your health regularly during pregnancy and be aware of any symptoms of AFLP. If you have any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to consult your doctor. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can significantly improve the prognosis for mother and child.

Recommended articles

If you want to learn more about health during pregnancy and pregnancy-related diseases, we recommend reading the following articles:

• “Hypertension in pregnancy – causes, symptoms, treatment”
• “Gestational diabetes – how to recognize and treat it?”
• “A healthy diet during pregnancy – what to eat and what to avoid?”

Remember that medical care and regular check-ups during pregnancy are crucial to ensure the safety and health of both the expectant mother and baby.

It is worth adding that the above information is of a general nature and does not replace a medical consultation. Each pregnancy is different, so you should always follow the specialist’s recommendations and opinions.