Fatty Liver Diseases.

 Fatty Liver Disease:

 Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver. While it's normal for the liver to contain a small amount of fat, too much can lead to inflammation, damage, and serious health problems.

Types of Fatty Liver Disease

There are two main types:

1. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Occurs in people who drink little or no alcohol. It's closely linked to obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol.

2. Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD)

Caused by heavy alcohol consumption, which disrupts fat metabolism in liver cells.

Causes and Risk Factors

Obesity

Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes

High blood lipids (triglycerides, cholesterol)

Insulin resistance

Excessive alcohol intake (in AFLD)

Rapid weight loss or malnutrition

Symptoms

Fatty liver often causes no symptoms in its early stages. When symptoms do appear, they may include:

Fatigue

Discomfort or pain in the upper right abdomen

Unexplained weight loss

Weakness

If untreated, it can progress to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis, or even liver failure.

Diagnosis typically involves:

Blood tests (elevated liver enzymes)

Imaging tests (ultrasound, CT scan, MRI)

Liver biopsy (in some cases)

Treatment and Management

There’s no specific medication approved for NAFLD or AFLD, but lifestyle changes are highly effective:

Weight loss: Losing at least 5-10% of body weight can reduce liver fat.

Healthy diet: Emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats.

Regular exercise: Aim for at least 150 minutes per week.

Avoid alcohol: Especially important for AFLD or advanced liver damage.

Control diabetes and cholesterol if present.

Maintain a healthy weight

Eat a balanced diet low in sugar and saturated fat

Exercise regularly

Limit or avoid alcohol

Monitor and manage metabolic health

Conclusion

Fatty liver is a common but potentially serious condition. Early detection and proactive lifestyle changes can prevent its progression and even reverse the damage. Regular check-ups and healthy living are key to protecting your liver health.