Fatty Liver

What is Fatty Liver?

Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver. This accumulation can lead to liver inflammation, scarring, and potential liver damage if left untreated.

Types of Fatty Liver Disease

Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD):

• Caused by excessive alcohol consumption

• Reversible with alcohol cessation

• Can progress to alcoholic hepatitis

Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD):

• Not related to alcohol use

• Associated with obesity and metabolic syndrome

• Can progress to NASH (Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis)

Common Symptoms

• Often asymptomatic in early stages

• Fatigue

• Right upper abdominal pain

• Unexplained weight loss

• Weakness

• Enlarged liver

Risk Factors

• Obesity

• Type 2 diabetes

• High cholesterol

• Metabolic syndrome

• High blood pressure

• Poor diet

• Sedentary lifestyle

Diagnostic Methods

Blood tests:

• Liver function tests

• Lipid profile

• Blood sugar levels

Imaging:

• Ultrasound

• CT scan

• MRI

Liver biopsy in selected cases

Treatment Approaches

Lifestyle modifications:

• Weight loss through healthy diet

• Regular exercise

• Limiting alcohol consumption

Medical management:

• Control of diabetes

• Management of high cholesterol

• Treatment of hypertension

Prevention Strategies

• Maintaining healthy weight

• Balanced diet low in processed foods

• Regular physical activity

• Limited alcohol consumption

• Regular medical check-ups

• Blood sugar control