Overview

Fatty liver disease is a condition in which too much fat builds up in liver cells, which makes the liver work less effectively. There are two main types of fatty liver disease: alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is caused by drinking too much alcohol, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, which is often linked to being overweight, having diabetes, or having metabolic problems. Fat accumulation may not be harmful at first, but if it persists, it can lead to inflammation, fibrosis, and eventually cirrhosis. Fatty liver disease is becoming more common because people don't move around much and eat poorly. To prevent the disease from worsening and keep the liver healthy, it is important to detect it early and make lifestyle changes.

Symptoms
In the early stages, fatty liver disease usually doesn't show any signs. Some people may feel tired, have mild pain or a feeling of fullness in the upper right abdomen, or feel weak for no apparent reason. As the disease gets worse, symptoms may include losing weight, not wanting to eat, and signs of liver problems like jaundice or swelling in the abdomen. Many cases are found during routine health checkups.

Causes
When metabolism is imbalanced, excess fat builds up in the liver, leading to fatty liver disease. Obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and bad eating habits are all common causes. Drinking too much alcohol can cause alcoholic fatty liver disease. A sedentary lifestyle, rapid weight gain, certain medications, and a genetic predisposition to fat metabolism all raise the risk.

Diagnosis
To make a diagnosis, doctors review the patient's medical history, perform a physical exam, and order blood tests to check liver enzymes. Ultrasound and other imaging tests are often used to find fat buildup. A CT or MRI scan may give you more information. A liver biopsy is sometimes performed to assess inflammation and fibrosis.

Treatment
The main focus of treatment is changing the way you live. The main strategies are maintaining a healthy weight, getting regular exercise, and eating a balanced diet. Keeping diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure under control helps prevent the disease from getting worse. It is very important to stay away from alcohol, especially if you have alcoholic fatty liver disease. Drugs can be used to treat metabolic disorders that accompany them. It is advised to check liver function regularly.