Fatty Liver

Fatty Liver is the most common problem of this era and most ignored- brushed off as “All of us have it. Dont worry”. But unfortunately, its the biggest health worry of this millenium. It gives no symptoms, no trouble, no manifestation till the liver shrinks totally and becomes cirrhotic. Fatty liver is a silent killer. But the good news is, its totally reversible up to a certain level of damage. It may occur due to alcohol or non alcoholic causes(NAFLD)

What is Fatty Liver?

Fatty liver occurs when excess fat gets deposited inside the liver cells. It is one of the most common lifestyle-related health problems today. While often shrugged off as “everyone has it,” fatty liver is actually a silent killer because it does not show symptoms until the damage becomes severe.

Is Fatty Liver dangerous?

Yes. In the early stages, it causes no pain or discomfort, so it’s usually ignored. But if untreated, it can progress to liver shrinkage (cirrhosis) and eventually liver failure. The good news is it is completely reversible if treated in time.

What are the types of Fatty Liver?

  • Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD) – caused by regular alcohol consumption
  • Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD/NASH) – due to lifestyle issues such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol

What are the symptoms of Fatty Liver?

In most people, there are no symptoms. In advanced stages, one may experience:

  • Tiredness or fatigue
  • Loss of appetite
  • Discomfort on the right side of abdomen
  • Swelling of legs or abdomen (in cirrhosis)
  • Yellow eyes and urine (jaundice – late sign)
fatty-liver

What causes Fatty Liver?

Common causes include:

  • Excess body weight (overweight/obesity)
  • Uncontrolled diabetes or high cholesterol
  • Alcohol consumption
  • Poor diet (high in fat, sugar, or processed foods)
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Rapid weight gain or crash dieting
  • Certain medications

How is Fatty Liver diagnosed?

  • Ultrasound abdomen (most common screening test)
  • Liver function tests (LFT)
  • Fibroscan or liver elastography
  • CT/MRI or biopsy in advanced cases

What is the treatment for Fatty Liver?

Treatment depends on the stage and cause. In early stages, lifestyle modification alone can reverse the condition.

✔ Weight reduction  body weight
✔ Healthy balanced diet low in fat, sugar, and carbohydrates
✔ Regular exercise (30–45 min daily)
✔ Avoid alcohol completely
✔ Control diabetes, cholesterol, and blood pressure
✔ Medications or supplements as prescribed by your liver specialist
✔ Regular monitoring through blood tests and ultrasound

Can Fatty Liver be completely cured?

Yes. If treated early, fatty liver is 100% reversible. However, if ignored and it reaches the stage of cirrhosis, reversal is not possible.

When should I see a doctor?

You should consult a specialist if:

  • You are overweight or diabetic
  • Your blood tests show abnormal liver function
  • Ultrasound reports mention fatty liver
  • You regularly consume alcohol
  • You experience fatigue, loss of appetite, or abdominal swelling

At The Best Gastro Care Centre, we specialize in evaluating liver problems with complete diagnostic tests and expert gastroenterology care.