The liver is the largest internal organ of the human body and is responsible for removing toxins and processing food nutrients. Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition where excess fat builds up in the liver. While it may sound harmless, fatty liver can have serious health implications if left unmanaged. Understanding the condition, its causes, symptoms, and fatty liver treatment options is crucial for maintaining liver health and overall well-being. This article will take a closer look at fatty liver and offer some mindful tips for managing the disease.
What is Fatty Liver?
Fatty liver occurs when more than 5-10% of the liver's weight is fat. There are two main types of fatty liver disease:
- Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): This type is not related to alcohol consumption and is the most common form of chronic liver disease in the developed world. NAFLD can progress to a more severe condition called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which involves liver inflammation and damage.
- Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD): This type is directly related to heavy alcohol use. Alcohol can alter the liver’s fat metabolism, leading to fat accumulation.
Is Fatty Liver Dangerous?
While the early stages of fatty liver may not cause significant harm, the condition can become dangerous if it progresses. Key risks associated with fatty liver include:
- Liver inflammation and scarring: Persistent fat accumulation can lead to liver inflammation (steatohepatitis). Over time, this inflammation can cause scarring (fibrosis) and eventually lead to cirrhosis, a serious condition where the liver is severely scarred and its function is compromised.
- Liver cancer: Patients diagnosed with fatty liver, especially those with NASH, have an increased risk of developing liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma).
- Cardiovascular disease: Fatty liver is often associated with other conditions like obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol, all of which can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.
- Kidney disease: There is a notable association between fatty liver and chronic kidney disease, which can further complicate a patient's health profile.
What Causes Fatty Liver?
Numerous factors, such as the following, can cause fatty liver:
- Obesity: Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen, is a significant risk factor.
- High-fat diet: Diets high in saturated fats and trans fats can contribute to fat accumulation in the liver.
- Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake is a well-known cause of AFLD.
- Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance: These conditions can lead to increased fat storage in the liver.
- Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to fatty liver.
- Medications: Certain medications, like corticosteroids and some cancer drugs, can increase the risk of developing fatty liver.
Symptoms of Fatty Liver
Fatty liver is often asymptomatic in its early stages. However, as the condition advances, fatty liver symptoms may manifest as follows:
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness and weakness.
- Abdominal discomfort: Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen, which is around the level of the liver.
- Weight loss: Unintentional weight loss can occur.
- Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin and eyes in advanced stages.
- Swelling: Swelling in the abdomen and legs due to fluid retention (ascites and oedema).
- Nausea and vomiting: These symptoms can occur as liver function declines.
- Mental confusion: In severe cases, liver dysfunction can compromise brain function.
- Light-coloured stools: Stools can appear pale or clay-coloured.
Diagnosing Fatty Liver
Fatty liver is often detected through routine blood tests showing elevated liver enzymes. Further diagnostic tests that a liver specialist may use include:
- Blood tests: A liver function test in Singapore and additional blood tests can help determine the cause and severity of liver disease.
- Imaging studies: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI can reveal fat accumulation in the liver.
- Liver biopsy: In cases of late-stage liver disease, a liver biopsy may be performed to assess the extent of liver damage.
Summary
Fatty liver disease is a prevalent condition with the potential for serious health complications. Early detection and proactive management through lifestyle changes and specialised care can help prevent its progression and boost liver health. If you suspect you have fatty liver or any other liver condition such as liver stones, consult with a liver doctor in Singapore to develop a personalised plan to protect your liver and overall well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can fatty liver disease be cured or improved?
Yes, in many cases, lifestyle changes such as weight loss, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can reduce liver fat and improve liver health.
Is fatty liver disease painful?
Fatty liver disease is often painless in its early stages but can cause discomfort and pain in the upper right abdomen as it progresses.
Can I drink alcohol if I have fatty liver?
If you are diagnosed with fatty liver, it's best to avoid alcohol, especially if it's alcohol-related. Even with NAFLD, limiting alcohol can prevent further liver damage.
How is fatty liver disease diagnosed?
Fatty liver is typically diagnosed through blood tests, imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI, and sometimes a liver biopsy.
What foods should I avoid with fatty liver?
Avoid foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, refined sugars, and alcohol. Focus on consuming a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.
References:
- Fowler, Paige. “Fatty Liver: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment”, WebMD, November 1 2023, https://www.webmd.com/hepatitis/fatty-liver-disease
- Healthdirect, “Fatty Liver”, May 2023, https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fatty-liver
- Mayo Clinic, “Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease”, April 4 2024, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20354567
