What Is Fatty Liver Disease?
Fatty liver disease, medically known as hepatic steatosis, occurs when excess fat accumulates in liver cells. When fat makes up more than 5–10% of the liver’s weight, it begins to interfere with the liver’s normal functions, including detoxification, metabolism, and digestion.
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Types of Fatty Liver Disease
1. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
This type occurs in people who drink little or no alcohol. It is commonly associated with:
- Obesity
- Type 2 diabetes
- High cholesterol or triglycerides
- Poor diet and sedentary lifestyle
2. Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD)
This type results from excessive alcohol consumption, which overwhelms the liver’s ability to metabolize fat.
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Causes and Risk Factors
Fatty liver disease develops due to a combination of metabolic and lifestyle factors, including:
- Excess body weight
- High intake of sugary and fatty foods
- Excess alcohol intake
- Diabetes and insulin resistance
- High cholesterol
- Physical inactivity
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Symptoms: Why It’s Often Missed
Many people with fatty liver disease have no symptoms, especially in the early stages. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Discomfort or pain in the right upper abdomen
- Bloating
- General weakness
Because symptoms are vague or absent, many cases are discovered during routine medical checkups or imaging tests.
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Why Fatty Liver Disease Is Dangerous
If ignored, fatty liver disease can progress through several stages:
- Steatohepatitis (liver inflammation)
- Fibrosis (scarring of liver tissue)
- Cirrhosis (permanent liver damage)
- Liver failure or liver cancer
Early intervention is key to preventing these complications.
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Diagnosis
Fatty liver disease is usually diagnosed through:
- Blood tests (liver function tests)
- Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI
- Assessment of risk factors such as weight, blood sugar, and cholesterol
In some cases, further tests may be required to assess liver damage.
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Treatment and Management
There is no single medication that cures fatty liver disease, but it can be effectively managed through lifestyle changes:
- Gradual weight loss
- Healthy, balanced diet
- Regular physical activity
- Reducing or stopping alcohol intake
- Managing blood sugar and cholesterol levels
With these changes, the liver can heal and return to normal function.
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Prevention Tips
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Limit sugary drinks and processed foods
- Exercise regularly
- Avoid excessive alcohol
- Go for regular health checkups
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Final Thoughts
Fatty liver disease is common, silent, and serious — but it is also reversible when detected early. Paying attention to your lifestyle and seeking medical advice when necessary can protect your liver and overall health.