What is Fatty Liver
Fatty liver, also called hepatic steatosis or steatohepatitis, is a condition in which too much fat has built up in your liver cells. The liver removes harmful substances from your bloodstream. It produces fluids your body needs. It also helps your body use and store energy from the food you eat.
In many cases, fatty liver does not cause symptoms or problems. It is often diagnosed when tests are being done for other reasons. However, over time, fatty liver can cause inflammation that may lead to more serious liver problems, such as scarring of the liver (cirrhosis).
What are the causes?
Causes of fatty liver may include:
- Drinking too much alcohol.
- Poor nutrition.
- Obesity.
- Cushing syndrome.
- Diabetes.
- Hyperlipidemia.
- Pregnancy.
- Certain drugs.
- Poisons.
- Some viral infections.
What increases the risk?
You may be more likely to develop fatty liver if you:
- Abuse alcohol.
- Are pregnant.
- Are overweight.
- Have diabetes.
- Have hepatitis.
- Have a high triglyceride level.
What are the signs or symptoms?
Fatty liver often does not cause any symptoms. In cases where symptoms develop, they can include:
- Fatigue.
- Weakness.
- Weight loss.
- Confusion.
- Abdominal pain.
- Yellowing of your skin and the white parts of your eyes (jaundice).
- Nausea and vomiting.
How is this diagnosed?
Fatty liver may be diagnosed by:
- Physical exam and medical history.
- Blood tests.
- Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI.
- Liver biopsy. A small sample of liver tissue is removed using a needle. The sample is then looked at under a microscope.
How is this treated?
Fatty liver is often caused by other health conditions. Treatment for fatty liver may involve medicines and lifestyle changes to manage conditions such as:
- Alcoholism.
- High cholesterol.
- Diabetes.
- Being overweight or obese.
Follow these instructions at home:
- Eat a healthy diet as directed by your health care provider.
- Exercise regularly. This can help you lose weight and control your cholesterol and diabetes. Talk to your health care provider about an exercise plan and which activities are best for you.
- Do notdrink alcohol.
- Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider.
Contact a health care provider if:
You have difficulty controlling your:
- Blood sugar.
- Cholesterol.
- Alcohol consumption.
Get help right away if:
- You have abdominal pain.
- You have jaundice.
- You have nausea and vomiting.
