Fatty Liver Disease: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a common condition in which excess fat builds up in the liver. While small amounts of fat in the liver are normal, excessive amounts can impair liver function and lead to serious health concerns over time.
The liver is the second-largest organ in the body and plays a vital role in processing nutrients, filtering toxins, and supporting overall health. In many cases, fatty liver disease causes no noticeable symptoms in its early stages. However, if left untreated, it can progress to liver inflammation, scarring, or even liver failure.
The good news is that fatty liver disease is often preventable, and in many cases, reversible, with the right lifestyle changes. Below, we’ll explore the types, causes, symptoms, and available treatment options.
Types of Fatty Liver Disease
There are two primary types of fatty liver disease: nonalcoholic and alcoholic.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) develops in individuals who consume little to no alcohol. The mildest form, often called simple fatty liver, involves fat buildup without inflammation or liver damage.
A more advanced form is nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which includes inflammation and liver cell damage. Over time, NASH can lead to fibrosis (scarring of the liver) and may eventually progress to cirrhosis if not properly managed.
Alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) is caused by excessive alcohol consumption. As the liver processes alcohol, it produces harmful byproducts that can damage liver cells. Continued heavy drinking increases the risk of more severe conditions, including alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis.
Who is at Risk for Fatty Liver Disease?
Several factors can increase your risk of developing fatty liver disease.
For alcoholic fatty liver disease, the primary risk factor is heavy alcohol use. According to the CDC, this is defined as:
- 15 or more drinks per week for men
- 8 or more drinks per week for women
Additional risk factors for AFLD include age, genetics, obesity, smoking, and certain infections such as hepatitis C.
Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is often associated with metabolic health conditions. Common risk factors include obesity, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, and high cholesterol or triglyceride levels.
Other contributing factors may include metabolic syndrome, obstructive sleep apnea, rapid weight loss, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), exposure to toxins, and pregnancy.
What Are the Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease?
Fatty liver disease is often called a “silent disease” because many people experience no symptoms, especially in the early stages.
As the condition progresses, some individuals may notice fatigue or discomfort in the upper right abdomen, where the liver is located.
In more advanced stages, such as NASH or cirrhosis, symptoms may include:
- Abdominal swelling
- Visible blood vessels under the skin
- Red palms
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
- Breast enlargement in men
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical evaluation promptly.
How is Fatty Liver Disease Diagnosed?
Because fatty liver disease often develops without symptoms, it is frequently discovered through routine blood work showing elevated liver enzymes.
At Digestive Healthcare Center, we offer advanced diagnostic testing with FibroScan, a non-invasive tool for detecting and assessing fatty liver disease, including NAFLD and NASH.
FibroScan works by measuring liver stiffness and fat content, helping physicians determine the extent of liver damage without the need for a traditional liver biopsy. The procedure is quick, painless, and requires no sedation or downtime.
Early diagnosis is essential for preventing disease progression and creating a personalized treatment plan.
Treatment for Fatty Liver Disease
Currently, there are no FDA-approved medications specifically for treating NAFLD or NASH. However, lifestyle changes are highly effective in managing and, in many cases, reversing fatty liver disease.
One of the most important steps is achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Losing just 3–5% of your body weight can significantly reduce liver fat and improve liver health.
Your provider may also recommend:
- Limiting or avoiding alcohol
- Engaging in regular physical activity
- Managing cholesterol and triglyceride levels
- Controlling blood sugar if you have diabetes
- Following a balanced, plant-based or nutrient-rich diet
These changes not only improve liver function but also support overall health and reduce the risk of related conditions.
Comprehensive Fatty Liver Disease Care at Digestive Healthcare Center
At Digestive Healthcare Center, we are committed to helping patients protect and improve their liver health. We proudly offer FibroScan testing at our Hillsborough location, providing a safe, affordable, and non-invasive option for diagnosing fatty liver disease.
As one of the few gastrointestinal centers in Central New Jersey offering this advanced technology, we make it easier for patients to get the answers they need without invasive procedures.
Our experienced team will guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management with personalized care every step of the way.
Contact Digestive Healthcare Center today to schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations or book a telehealth visit with one of our skilled providers.
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