In medical term, it is called Steatosis.
In the early stages, it is reversible but once the condition worsens it often leads to a progressive liver disease.
How Do I Know that I have Fatty Liver?
You don’t know because it does not give rise to any symptoms most of the times.
Still, some general symptoms are
- Abdominal pain
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes)
- Swelling of the abdomen and legs (edema)
- Mental confusion
- Extreme fatigue
- Upper Abdominal Fullness
There Must Be Some Warning Signs / Risk Factors?
Who have a tendency to develop fatty liver is the right question to ask your doctor
- Obesity or overweight.
- Having type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance.
- High blood pressure.
- High triglyceride levels.
- A combination of all these factors.
Why Is It Bad To Have Fat In The Liver?
The liver normally contains a small amount of fat. If more than 5 to 15% of the liver’s weight consists of fat, fatty liver disease is present.
As the amount of Fat In the Liver increase, it interferes with the functioning of the Liver cells ( Hepatocytes )
This leads to a compromised liver or chronic liver disease.
How Is Fatty Liver Diagnosed?
- Blood Tests to check the enzyme levels in liver.
- Ultrasound of the Liver.
- CT Scan of the liver.
Who Will Treat My Fatty Liver?
Usually, you need to go either the Physician or Gastroenterologist who can guide you well in the treatment.
The Treatment Of Fatty Liver
There is no single treatment here. Mostly no treatment is required.
Weight Loss is the single most important factor which can alter the scales.
The weight loss should be Monitored by the doctor , Nutrition specialist.
How can fatty liver disease be prevented?
- Maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight or obese, lose weight gradually.
- Eat a balanced diet. Avoid foods that are high in cholesterol.
- Vegetables, fruits, and low-fat foods may help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
- Exercise regularly.
- Limit your alcohol consumption or do not drink.
- Take medications as prescribed.
