Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention

Let's shine a spotlight on a condition that's becoming increasingly common yet often misunderstood “fatty liver disease”

Whether you've been diagnosed with it by your GP or just curious to learn more, we've got you covered. Let's dive in!

What is fatty liver?

Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, occurs when fat accumulates in the liver cells.

This build-up can lead to inflammation and damage to the liver over time.

Liver is the second largest organ in your body, it helps to process nutrients from food and drinks, and filters harmful substances from your blood.

Too much fat in the liver can lead to liver inflammation, which can damage the liver and create scarring, in severe cases, this scarring can lead to liver failure.

Types of fatty liver disease:

• Alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD):

This type develops in patients with a lot of alcohol consumption.

• Non alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) :

This type develops in patients who do not drink alcohol.

Symptoms of fatty liver disease :

In its early stages, fatty liver disease may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, you may experience:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Abdominal discomfort or pain
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
• Swelling in the abdomen or legs

If left untreated, fatty liver disease can lead to more severe complications such as liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and even liver failure.

If you any of the symptoms, it is best to consult with a GP. Here is how we at Neo Health can help you.

Causes and risk factors:

• Poor Diet: Diets high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats can promote fat accumulation in the liver.
• Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity is a risk factor for obesity and metabolic disorders, which can increase the risk of fatty liver disease.
• Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Drinking too much alcohol can overload the liver, leading to fatty liver disease among other complications.
• Genetics: Some people may be more predisposed to developing fatty liver disease due to genetic factors.
• Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions like insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes are associated with an increased risk of NAFLD.
• Obesity: Excess body weight, particularly abdominal obesity, is a significant risk factor for NAFLD.
• Type 2 diabetes: People with type 2 diabetes are at an increased risk of developing NAFLD. Insulin resistance, a hallmark of type 2 diabetes, can lead to the accumulation of fat in the liver.
• High Levels of Fat in the Blood (Hypertriglyceridemia): Elevated levels of triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood, are associated with an increased risk of NAFLD.
• Metabolic Syndrome: Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that occur together, including obesity, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar levels, and abnormal cholesterol levels.

Your convenient, efficient at-home testing service from NeoHealth means that our nurses can visit you at your home or place of work to take your blood, administer tests and deliver results quickly, and professionally.

How is fatty liver treated, and is it reversible?

The good news is that fatty liver disease is often reversible, especially if caught early. Here are some tips to help manage and prevent it:

1. Maintain Healthy Weight: Aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit your intake of sugary drinks, processed foods, and saturated fats.
2. Get Moving: Regular exercise can help reduce liver fat, improve insulin sensitivity, and promote overall health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week.
3. Limit Alcohol Consumption: If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. For women, that means up to one drink per day, and for men, up to two drinks per day.
4. Manage Medical Conditions: If you have underlying medical conditions like diabetes or high cholesterol, work with your healthcare provider to keep them under control.
5. Avoid Crash Diets: Rapid weight loss can worsen fatty liver disease. Instead, focus on gradual, sustainable changes to your diet and lifestyle.
6. Stay Informed: Educate yourself about fatty liver disease and its risk factors. Knowledge is power, and understanding the condition can empower you to make healthier choices.

Fatty liver disease may sound scary, but with the right knowledge and lifestyle changes, you can take control of your liver health.

Remember, small steps can lead to big improvements over time. If you have concerns about fatty liver disease or notice any symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance and support.

At Neo Health, we're committed to providing comprehensive care for patients with fatty liver disease. Through general consultation with a GP doctor, we offer personalized education, monitoring, medication management, blood tests to assess liver function and diagnose fatty liver disease and IV drip counseling to support liver health and improve overall quality of life.

Here's to a happy, healthy liver – you've got this! Book your appointment now.