General Information About Fatty Liver Disease
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the accumulation of excessive triglyceride (fat) droplets inside the liver cells, enlarging the organ and slowing down its functions.
It is seen even in those who never drink alcohol. The main causes are obesity (a disease of the modern age), insulin resistance, Type 2 diabetes, a sedentary lifestyle, and a diet heavily based on refined carbohydrates/sugar.
The vast majority of cases show no symptoms and are found incidentally during routine blood/ultrasound tests. In advanced stages, it can cause a feeling of fullness under the right ribs and chronic fatigue.
Simple fatty liver (Steatosis) is not dangerous. However, if fat accumulation irritates the cells and creates inflammation (Steatohepatitis - NASH), it can progress to cell death and irreversible cirrhosis over the years.
A slight elevation of liver enzymes (ALT, AST) in blood tests gives the first signal. It is easily diagnosed by seeing the liver as brighter (fatty) and larger than normal on a Whole Abdomen Ultrasonography.
There is no medical drug for it. Treatment depends entirely on the patient changing their lifestyle. Losing 7-10% of total body weight, cutting out sugar/packaged foods, and regular aerobic exercise (walking) completely melt the fat in the liver.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
