The Startling Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver disease has become an epidemic in the United States, with an estimated 25% of adults experiencing the condition, but many may not realize it because many of the symptoms are vague and similar to other conditions. Here are the startling symptoms of fatty liver disease that you should be aware of if you suspect you may have the condition.

Introduction

Although alcohol abuse remains a leading cause of fatty liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is on the rise. In fact, approximately 30 percent of adults in America are said to be obese and at risk for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. If you're wondering what causes fatty liver disease or what are some of its symptoms, then read on.

What is it?

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD, is a condition where fat accumulates in liver cells. It’s caused by obesity and a high-fat diet, but can also be caused by excessive alcohol consumption. NAFLD is one of many forms of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which also includes alcoholic fatty liver disease. NASH is responsible for about 25 percent of liver transplants in America—and it’s on the rise.

What causes it?

According to an estimated 50 percent of American adults and 20 percent of children, fatty liver disease is caused by a buildup in fat inside your liver cells. The condition can lead to scarring or cirrhosis, which can increase your risk for liver cancer. Some people are at higher risk for fatty liver than others: those who have Type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol; those who are obese; and women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or anyone taking birth control pills.

Why does it matter?

Fatty liver disease is a silent epidemic, affecting millions but rarely discussed. If left untreated, it can progress to advanced fibrosis and even death. Fortunately, there are many fatty liver disease treatments available—but they aren’t widely advertised. If you have some form of fatty liver, or think you might be at risk for it, pay attention to these 11 symptoms... and visit your doctor as soon as possible. They may save your life!

-Sudden weight gain: One of the first signs of fatty liver disease is rapid weight gain (particularly around your abdomen). While that alone isn't enough to warrant concern, it's definitely worth getting checked out by a doctor if you're experiencing any kind of unexplained weight gain. If your physician finds that you're suffering from fatty liver disease, he or she will likely suggest lifestyle changes and recommend that you stop drinking alcohol altogether (alcoholic fatty liver is one cause). It's also important to note that being overweight contributes to fatty liver development.

How do you treat it?

When it comes to treating fatty liver disease, there’s good news and bad news. The good news is that even in its later stages, you can make a turnaround with diet changes and exercise. The bad news is that some of these lifestyle interventions may be difficult for you to accomplish. But by losing weight, exercising regularly, controlling your diabetes (if applicable), and reducing alcohol consumption, you can help manage fatty liver disease successfully over time.

Are there any side effects from treatment?

The treatment for fatty liver disease is, thankfully, pretty easy. Your doctor may recommend that you change your diet or give you medication to get rid of excess fat in your liver. In rare cases where fatty liver disease is caused by long-term alcohol use, you’ll likely need to quit drinking to see an improvement. Follow up with your doctor regularly if you have been diagnosed with fatty liver disease; she may suggest further tests depending on what she finds during her initial examination.

Conclusion

Diet is a necessary part of any fatty liver treatment plan. In fact, there’s evidence that following a healthy diet can actually reverse non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in some cases.