What is a fatty liver

Fatty liver disease is a common and reversible condition in which the fat is accumulated in the liver cells via abnormal retention of lipids. People who are consuming too much alcohol, and people who are obese, are most likely to develop fatty liver disease. This condition also occurs as a result of other diseases that alter normal fat metabolism in the body. Commonly, the accumulation of fat is accompanied by progressive inflammation of liver, which is a more serious stage of the disease that slowly damages the liver. Scarring of the liver tissue results in cirrhosis, which obstructs the liver’s normal functioning.

This disease is commonly associated with excessive alcohol intake and metabolic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, obesity and dyslipidemia. It sometimes occurs as a result of malnutrition, severe malnutrition, inflammatory bowel disease and severely compromised immune system.

Signs and symptoms of fatty liver

Fatty liver disease in most of the people doesn’t show any obvious signs and symptoms. However, certain symptoms may be present, and they typically include pain in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen, noticeable weight loss and constant fatigue. Fatty liver is relatively easy diagnosed based on the blood test, which indicate the changes of the liver enzymes. Imaging procedures such as the ultrasound, computerized tomography scans, and magnetic resonance imaging, may also detect the changes in the liver. If doctor suspects there is a more serious form of the disease present, a liver tissue biopsy may be recommended. During this procedure, a sample of tissue is going to be removed from the liver, to be examined in the laboratory for signs of inflammation and scaring.

Treatment for fatty liver

There is no definite treatment to manage this condition itself. Doctors will typically address various factors that contribute to the disease. Treatment will usually involve dietary changes, physical exercises, and sometimes medication and surgery. Certain medications are also recognized as possible causes of fatty liver disease. If this is the case, doctors may prescribe different medication to the patient to reverse the course of disease.

This is a serious health concern that requires immediate attention. In some rare cases, patients may develop hepatocellular carcinoma, if the disease is left untreated. The best way to prevent the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is to follow a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight while paying attention to various chemicals from the environment. People working with chemicals should pay attention to the safety measures required by the employer.