Fatty liver disease occurs when excess fat builds up in the
liver. A small amount of fat in the liver can be normal, but excessive fat
accumulation can cause inflammation and, over time, damage healthy liver
tissue.
Fatty liver disease is becoming increasingly common and can
affect people who drink little or no alcohol. Early-stage fatty liver may not
cause noticeable symptoms, which is why it is often discovered during routine
blood tests or an ultrasound.
Many people with fatty liver disease have no symptoms in the
early stages. When symptoms occur, they may include:
● Persistent tiredness or weakness
● Discomfort or heaviness in the upper-right abdomen
● Loss of appetite
● Nausea
● Unexplained weight loss
● General feeling of being unwell
As liver damage progresses, symptoms such as yellowing of
the skin or eyes, swelling of the abdomen or legs, and easy bruising may
develop.
Fatty liver can develop for several reasons. Common risk
factors include:
● Overweight or obesity
● Type 2 diabetes
● High cholesterol or triglycerides
● Insulin resistance
● High blood pressure
● A sedentary lifestyle
● Excessive alcohol consumption
● Certain medications
● Rapid weight loss
There are two broad forms of fatty liver disease:
alcohol-related fatty liver disease and metabolic dysfunction-associated
steatotic liver disease (MASLD), which occurs mainly due to metabolic risk
factors.
You should consult a gastroenterologist or liver specialist
if you have persistent abdominal discomfort, unexplained fatigue, abnormal
liver tests, diabetes, obesity, or other metabolic risk factors.
If you develop yellow eyes or skin, abdominal swelling,
vomiting blood, black stools, confusion, or severe weakness, seek urgent
medical attention.
Your doctor may recommend blood tests, abdominal ultrasound,
FibroScan or other imaging tests to assess liver fat and fibrosis. In selected
cases, additional investigations may be required.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and stage of liver
disease. Lifestyle changes are often an important part of management and may
include gradual weight loss, regular physical activity, a balanced diet,
control of blood sugar and cholesterol, and avoiding alcohol when advised.
Early diagnosis and proper management can help prevent fatty
liver from progressing to inflammation, fibrosis, cirrhosis, or liver failure.
