What Is Fatty Liver?

Fatty liver is excess accumulation fat in liver. This is very common condition. More than 10% population is affected with this.

Why Does It Occur?

Obesity, heavy alcohol intake, certain drugs, thyroid, diabetes, abnormal lipids, hepatitis b and c are important risk factors.

What Are The Symptoms of Fatty Liver?

Fatty liver is usually asymptomatic. Mild pain or discomfort in upper abdomen on right hand side may occur due to enlargement of liver.

How to Diagnose Fatty Liver?

Ultrasound is the simplest way to diagnose fatty liver. Blood tests might help in diagnosing severity of liver disease. Fibroscan is a new modality which helps differentiating fatty liver from more serious cirrhosis of liver. Liver biopsy is invasive but the gold standard to diagnose fatty liver.

What are the Complications of Fatty Liver If Not Treated?

Fatty liver if left untreated might progress to steatohepatitis, fibrosis and cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is end stage liver disease where liver transplantation might be needed in advanced stage. Fatty liver can cause liver cancer, too.

How to Treat Fatty Liver?

The best treatment for fatty liver is avoidance of risk factor. Cessation of alcohol intake and reduction in weight are most important factors. Good control of diabetes and thyroid disease also helps. One should avoid medicines like tetracycline which cause fatty liver. Hepatitis b and c should be looked for and treated appropriately if present in blood.