Important facts about fatty liver

What is fatty liver?

The presence of fat in the liver is called fatty liver. If there is no history of alcoholism as the cause, it is called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

What causes fatty liver?

Excess caloric intake and sedentary lifestyle are the main causes of fat accumulation in the liver. Apart from this, metabolic syndrome (high blood pressure, type-2 diabetes, excess fat levels in the blood, obesity, insulin resistance, excess uric acid), side effects of some drugs, hepatitis C, Wilson's disease, excessive alcohol consumption, etc. also cause fat accumulation in the liver.

What happens when fat accumulates in the liver?

Fat deposits in the liver can have many consequences. In non-alcoholic fatty liver, only fat is deposited. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) involves fatty deposits as well as inflammation of the liver. Liver fibrosis causes the liver cells to harden. NASH patients may eventually develop cirrhosis of the liver. There is even a risk of liver cancer from fatty liver.

Who needs a fatty liver test?

People who have type-2 diabetes, who are overweight or obese. If routine tests show elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST) for more than six months, testing should also be done. Testing is also recommended in patients with heart disease or cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome (high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, excess fat in the blood).

What are the health risks of fatty liver?

In addition to liver problems, patients with fatty liver are at risk of diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, obesity, excess fat in the blood, colon cancer and kidney disease.

What are the symptoms of fatty liver?

Patients with fatty liver may remain asymptomatic. However, pain or discomfort on the right side of someone's abdomen, feeling tired, shivering, severe liver disease, jaundice, weight loss, swelling of the body may appear.

What tests detect fatty liver?

Abdominal ultrasonography, some blood tests (SGPT), liver fibroscan and cap, and in some cases liver biopsy are needed to diagnose fatty liver on doctor's advice.

What is the treatment for fatty liver?

Consult a liver specialist if you are suffering from fatty liver disease. Positive lifestyle changes are the main treatment for fatty liver.

1. The amount of calories in food should be reduced. The amount of sugar and fatty foods should be reduced. Reduce meat and beef and increase the amount of vegetables, fruits and fish. Avoid soft drinks, fast food, alcohol.

2. Physical activity is very important to treat fatty liver. At least 150 minutes of physical activity per week (regular walking, cycling, swimming, etc.) is required.

3. Keep weight under control.

4. Take medication for fatty liver if necessary with the advice of a liver specialist.

5. Control diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, get proper treatment for excess fat in blood.