Fatty Liver

What is a fatty liver?

If you have a buildup of fat in your liver, you have fatty liver disease. There are two primary types of fatty liver disease including:

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

NAFLD describes a fatty liver not caused by excessive alcohol consumption. NAFLD is becoming more and more common and seems to coincide with rising rates of obesity. Over time, the excess fat in the liver may lead to inflammation and scarring, which is referred to as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH).

Alcoholic fatty liver disease

Alcoholic fatty liver disease, also referred to as steatohepatitis, occurs due to excessive consumption of alcohol over a long period of time.

Both types of fatty liver disease can lead to permanent liver damage and, ultimately, liver failure.

What causes fatty liver?

Heavy alcohol use over a long period of time leads to the development of alcoholic fatty liver diseases. 

With NAFLD, researchers aren’t certain of the exact cause. However, certain medical conditions seem to be risk factors, including:

• High cholesterol
• High triglycerides
• Type 2 diabetes
• Hypothyroidism
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Obesity

You’re at greater risk of NASH if you have a history of diabetes or obesity, and your risk of permanent liver damage increases as you get older.

How is fatty liver diagnosed?

Fatty liver disease develops without causing symptoms, which can make it difficult to get an early diagnosis. However, your provider may suggest additional testing to assess liver health if you have any of the associated risk factors.

The team at Digestive Disease Specialists use diagnostic tests to determine if you have fatty liver disease, which may include:

• Blood test
• Ultrasound
• CT scan
• MRI

The team may also suggest taking a biopsy of your liver to evaluate further the extent of fatty infiltration and/or tissue damage. 

What are the treatments for a fatty liver?

The team at Digestive Disease Specialists develops individualized treatment plans for managing fatty liver. While your provider may direct treatment at the underlying cause of your fatty liver, lifestyle changes, including diet modification and regular exercise, are often a major part of treatment plans. 

Weight loss is recommended if you’re overweight or obese. The team at Digestive Disease Specialists can help you achieve your weight-loss goals and improve your health. 

Alcohol cessation is also required. 

If you have concerns about fatty liver disease, contact the Digestive Disease Specialists. Call the office to schedule an appointment or request one online today.