Fatty Liver

What Is Fatty Liver ?

Fatty Liver Disease: Types and Causes

Fatty liver disease encompasses two main types:

1. Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD):

Extremely prevalent in the U.S., affecting one in three adults, NAFLD’s cause remains unclear. However, obesity and diabetes significantly elevate the risk. Unlike its counterpart, NAFLD isn’t associated with alcohol consumption. This category further branches into two forms:

2. Alcohol-Related Fatty Liver Disease (ALD):

Less common, impacting roughly 5% of the U.S. population, ALD directly arises from alcohol consumption. Consequently, it often improves with abstinence. Continued alcohol use, however, can lead to severe complications, including:

ALD typically precedes and can progress to alcoholic hepatitis and eventually cirrhosis. If you struggle with heavy drinking, seek confidential support from your doctor. They can help you manage your alcohol intake to safeguard your health.

Causes of Fatty Liver ?

Alcohol-Related Fatty Liver Disease (ALD)

Obesity

Malnutrition

Chronic viral hepatitis, particularly hepatitis C

Sex

Age:

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Obesity or overweight status

Genetics

Insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes

High levels of triglycerides or “bad” cholesterol, or low levels of “good” cholesterol

Age

Polycystic ovary syndrome

Sleep apnea

Hypothyroidism

Hypopituitarism

Malnutrition

Rapid weight loss

Exposure to specific toxins and chemicals

Hispanic or Asian ethnicity

Metabolic syndrome

Symptoms of Fatty Liver ?

With ALD and NAFLD, there are usually no symptoms. Some people may have signs such as tiredness or pain in the upper right side of the belly where your liver is.

If you have NASH or get cirrhosis, you may have symptoms such as:

Swollen belly

Enlarged blood vessels underneath your skin

Larger-than-normal breasts in men

Red palms

Jaundice

Nausea, weight loss, or loss of appetite

Tiredness or mental confusion

Diagnosis of Fatty Liver?

Diagnosing Fatty Liver Disease

Due to the often asymptomatic nature of fatty liver disease, diagnosis can be challenging. Various methods are employed by healthcare providers to identify FLD. These include:

Medical History and Physical Examination:

Alcohol Consumption Inquiry.

Medical History

Physical Examination

Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculation:

Blood Tests

Liver Function and Enzyme Tests

Fibrosis Assessment Tests

Lipid Profile

Other Blood Tests

Hemoglobin A1c

Imaging Tests:

Ultrasound

CT Scans

MRI

Elastography Tests

Liver Biopsy

Treatment of Fatty Liver?

While no medications currently hold FDA approval for NAFLD, several promising options are undergoing clinical trials.

The primary treatment strategy for NAFLD is weight loss. Reducing body weight by just 3% to 5% can significantly decrease liver fat accumulation, inflammation, and scarring. For individuals with substantial weight to lose, weight loss surgery may be a viable option.

Abstinence from alcohol is crucial for preventing further liver damage and potentially reversing existing damage. If you struggle with alcohol dependence, consult your doctor about accessing support resources. Medically supervised detox programs can facilitate safe withdrawal and manage withdrawal symptoms.

In severe cases of NASH with complications like cirrhosis or liver failure, a liver transplant may be necessary. Fortunately, liver transplant recipients with NASH generally experience positive outcomes.

“Thank you for visiting Gastroenterology & Liver Disease, my goal is to treat my patients in a highly personalized manner and I am dedicated to give you the utmost attention and respect that you deserve. For more infromation on this disease or to schedule a consultation with me, please give us a call or book a tele-health appointment online.”

Albert Shalomov

Dr. Albert Shalomov, MD

Disclaimer: Educational Infromation, Not Medical Advice

It’s important to remember that the information provided here is intended for educational purposes only and should not be misconstrued as definitive medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified gastroenterologist for accurate diagnosis and treatment of any specific gastrointestinal condition. Only trained healthcare professionals can provide personalized recommendations and ensure your well-being.