Fatty Liver Disease
On this page, you will find everything you are looking for concerning fatty liver disease.
What is Fatty Liver Disease?
- The liver is one of the most important organs in the body, contributing to digestion, processing nutrients, storing energy, and detoxifying the body. Fatty liver disease is a common condition characterized by fat accumulation in liver cells. The main types of fatty liver disease include the following:
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): This results from the buildup of fat in the liver and may be accompanied by non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, which can lead to liver cell damage or liver cirrhosis.
Alcoholic fatty liver disease: This condition is caused by excessive alcohol consumption, which damages liver cells and causes inflammation.
What are the symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease?
- Fatty liver disease, whether non-alcoholic or alcoholic, is often asymptomatic. In rare cases, some symptoms may appear depending on the severity and stage of the disease, such as:
- Feeling tired.
- Discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen.
- Nausea, loss of appetite, or weight loss.
- Signs of liver failure (cirrhosis) in the very advanced stages of the disease.
- Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice).
Swelling of the abdomen and legs (edema).
What are the causes of Fatty Liver Disease?
- A healthy liver generally contains little to no fat. Excessive alcohol consumption over the long term or a high-calorie diet can cause the body to convert some excess calories into fat, which is stored in liver cells, leading to its accumulation. There are several risk factors that increase the chances of developing fatty liver. Some people may develop fatty liver disease due to certain health conditions or as a complication, such as:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome.
- Chronic Hepatitis B.
- Chronic Hepatitis C.
- Side effects of some medications..hemochromatosis).
Hemochromatosis.
- Risk factors for fatty liver disease include:
- Type 2 diabetes and pre-diabetes.
- Obesity.
- High levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.
- Metabolic disorders.
High blood pressure.
What are the diagnostic methods?
- A doctor takes the medical history and conducts a physical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
- Laboratory tests to check liver functions.
- LiverMRIbiopsy.Ultrasound).
Imaging tests such as MRI or ultrasound.
What are the treatments for Fatty Liver Disease?
- There is no specific medication for fatty liver disease. Instead, doctors focus on helping you manage the factors contributing to the condition. They also recommend lifestyle changes that can significantly improve your health. Treatment involves several procedures as needed and may include:
- Weight loss.
- Avoiding alcohol consumption.
- Following a healthy diet.
- Regular exercise.
- Controlling chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
- Avoiding smoking.
Treating high lipid levels if present.
What are the preventive methods for Fatty Liver Disease?
- Lifestyle changes are key to preventing fatty liver disease, such as:
- Regular physical activity.
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Following a healthy diet.
Avoiding alcohol consumption.
What are the complications of Fatty Liver Disease?
- Fatty liver disease often does not cause complications for many people, but complications may occur in advanced stages:
Cirrhosis or liver failure.
When should you see a doctor?
Usually, there are no symptoms, but it is recommended to visit a doctor for a preventive consultation to avoid fatty liver disease.
- FAQs:
Are fatty liver diseases serious?
