Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a common condition characterized by the accumulation of excess fat in the liver. While having some fat in the liver is normal, when fat makes up more than 5-10% of the liver's weight, it can lead to complications. Fatty liver is often asymptomatic in its early stages but can progress to more severe liver damage if left untreated. Talking to your gastroenterologist about fatty liver disease and when it may be an issue is important.
Understanding Fatty Liver Disease
There are two main types of fatty liver disease. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD). NAFLD is the most common type of fatty liver disease, affecting people who drink little or no alcohol. It is often associated with obesity, insulin resistance, high blood sugar, and high levels of fats in the blood. NAFLD can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which involves inflammation and liver cell damage, potentially leading to fibrosis (scarring) and cirrhosis.
AFLD is caused by excessive alcohol consumption, which disrupts the liver’s ability to metabolize fats, leading to fat accumulation. Continued alcohol abuse can lead to more serious conditions such as alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis.
If you’re dealing with other issues like obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, or excessive alcohol consumption, you may be at a higher risk for dealing with fatty liver disease. In its early stages, fatty liver disease often has no symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, symptoms may include:
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Abdominal discomfort or pain in the upper right side
- Unexplained weight loss
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice), in advanced cases
Fatty liver disease is often managed through lifestyle changes to reduce the amount of fat in the liver. Gradual weight loss through diet and exercise is the most effective way to reduce liver fat. Even a modest weight loss of 5-10% of body weight can significantly improve liver health. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help manage fatty liver disease. Limiting sugar, refined carbohydrates, and saturated fats is also crucial.
Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling, can help reduce liver fat, improve insulin sensitivity, and support overall health. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Controlling risk factors like diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure can prevent the progression of fatty liver disease. Medications may be prescribed to manage these conditions effectively.
Contact Our Gastroenterologist Today
Make sure you understand fatty liver disease. Call Dr. Anne Thai in Burlingame, CA, at (650) 685-6105 to learn more about it and how it could affect you.