Causes and Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease?

Answer 1

Excess fat in the liver is known as fatty liver disease. There are two types of fatty liver disease: alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Both forms of the disease can lead to permanent liver damage.

Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD)

A very high percentage of individuals who abuse alcohol will develop a fatty liver. The amount of alcohol consumed and how long it is consumed before leading to the disease will vary among different people.

Other factors that may contribute to the likelihood of developing ALD are obesity, diet, a history of Hepatitis C, or high levels of iron in the system.

Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

NAFLD is fatty liver disease that is not brought on by alcohol and it is the most common cause of chronic liver disease in the U.S. Although it is an abnormal condition, it does not always damage the liver.

Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease

There are usually no symptoms in the beginning stages of fatty liver disease. In advanced cases there may be nausea, weight loss, fatigue, and mental confusion. The liver may be enlarged, and there may be pain in the upper right section of the abdomen. If cirrhosis occurs, the liver will begin to fail, causing fluid retention, yellowing of the eyes and skin, muscle wasting, and internal bleeding.

Diagnosis of Fatty Liver Disease

An enlarged liver noticed during a checkup or a blood test showing elevated liver enzymes may lead to a suspicion of fatty liver disease. It may also show up on an X-ray or ultrasound. A liver biopsy is the only way to confirm it, however.

Treatment of Fatty Liver Disease

At this time, there is no treatment for fatty liver disease. In the case of alcoholic liver disease the most important thing to do is stop drinking. For those who are overweight, gradual weight loss may decrease the amount of fat in the liver.