What is Fatty Liver Disease?
Fatty liver disease is a very common condition often detected during an annual wellness exam. A lab test showing elevated liver enzymes may be the first clue. An ultrasound or CT scan of the liver can also confirm the diagnosis.
Most patients with this diagnosis deny any obvious symptoms. It is usually a complete surprise. No pain, no nausea, no yellow eyes, no nothing… unless the condition has become advanced.
Many patients immediately ask:
- Did someone give me this condition?
- Should I be worried about fatty liver?
- Will this cause major health problems?
These are all valid questions. Fortunately, fatty liver disease can be addressed effectively with a combination of medical care and nutrition-focused treatment.
More Details About Fatty Liver
Excess fat in the body is not just stored in adipose tissue. Belly fat is only one location—fat accumulates in all organs, particularly in the liver.
As fat builds up, inflammation can develop within liver cells, leading to cellular dysfunction, mild scarring, and eventually cirrhosis (severe scarring). Interestingly, liver inflammation does not occur in everyone with fatty liver disease.
Alcohol vs. Fatty Liver
Heavy alcohol use can produce similar imaging results on ultrasound or CT scan. However, this condition is called alcoholic liver disease, not fatty liver disease.
Causes of Fatty Liver – The Big Three
The most common causes of fatty liver disease include:
- Obesity – excess body weight contributes to fat buildup in the liver
- Type 2 Diabetes – insulin resistance increases fat accumulation
- High Cholesterol – elevated lipids promote fatty deposits in the liver
Stages and Progression of Fatty Liver
1. Simple Fatty Liver
Fat accumulates in the liver without significant inflammation or damage.
2. Steatohepatitis (NASH)
Inflammation and damage occur in the liver cells due to fat. Usually no symptoms, but liver enzymes are elevated.
3. Fibrosis
Persistent inflammation leads to scar tissue formation in the liver. Mild symptoms may appear, including fatigue and non-specific complaints.
4. Cirrhosis
Extensive scarring causes the liver to become lumpy and lose function. Symptoms may include fatigue, yellow eyes, swelling, and confusion.
Fatty Liver Treatment
Treatment focuses on addressing underlying causes:
- Lose weight – reduce fat accumulation in the liver
- Control cholesterol levels – manage blood lipids
- Control diabetes – improve insulin sensitivity and liver health
Get Help for Fatty Liver Disease
Our Liver Center specializes in the treatment of fatty liver disease and prevention of complications. We offer an integrated medical and nutrition program to correct and prevent further scarring and liver damage.
If you have been diagnosed with fatty liver, make an appointment today to protect your liver health.
Best of Health,
Dr. Lyday
