Fatty Liver Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Stages, Diagnosis & Treatment

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What Is Fatty Liver Disease?

Fatty liver disease occurs when excess fat accumulates in liver cells. Normally, the liver contains a small amount of fat, but when fat makes up more than 5–10% of the liver’s weight, it is considered abnormal. Fatty liver is common and often reversible in early stages if addressed on time.

Types of Fatty Liver Disease

  1. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

    • Not related to alcohol intake

    • Commonly associated with obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, and sedentary lifestyle

  2. Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD)

    • Caused by excessive alcohol consumption

    • Risk increases with duration and quantity of alcohol intake

Causes and Risk Factors

  • Obesity and overweight

  • Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance

  • High cholesterol or triglycerides

  • Excess alcohol intake

  • Poor diet (high sugar, refined carbs, fried foods)

  • Rapid weight loss or malnutrition

  • Certain medications (e.g., steroids, some chemotherapy drugs)

Symptoms

Fatty liver disease is often silent, especially in early stages. When symptoms appear, they may include:

  • Fatigue and weakness

  • Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen

  • Loss of appetite

  • Nausea

  • Unexplained weight loss (in advanced stages)



  • Simple fatty liver (steatosis) – Fat buildup without inflammation

  • Steatohepatitis – Fat with inflammation (NASH or alcoholic hepatitis)

  • Fibrosis – Scar tissue begins forming

  • Cirrhosis – Severe scarring leading to liver failure (irreversible)

  • Diagnosis

    • Blood tests: Elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST)

    • Ultrasound abdomen: Most common screening test

    • CT/MRI: More detailed imaging

    • FibroScan: Measures liver fat and stiffness

    • Liver biopsy: Rarely needed, confirms severity

    3. Physical Activity

    • At least 30 minutes of exercise, 5 days a week

    • Combination of walking, aerobic exercise, and strength training

    4. Avoid Alcohol

    • Complete abstinence is strongly recommended, especially in advanced stages

    5. Control Medical Conditions

    • Good control of diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure

    Complications

    If untreated, fatty liver disease may progress to:

    • Liver fibrosis

    • Cirrhosis

    • Liver failure

    • Increased risk of liver cancer

    • Cardiovascular diseases

    Prevention Tips

    • Maintain a healthy weight

    • Eat a balanced, liver-friendly diet

    • Exercise regularly

    • Limit or avoid alcohol

    • Regular health check-ups if you have diabetes or obesity

    Key Takeaway

    Fatty liver disease is common but largely preventable and reversible in its early stages. Early diagnosis, healthy lifestyle choices, and regular follow-up can protect your liver and prevent serious complications.

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