Fatty liver

Fatty liver, medically known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition characterized by the accumulation of excessive fat in the liver cells. The condition is often associated with risk factors such as obesity, excessive alcohol consumption, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or certain medications. Fatty liver can be classified into two main types: alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). AFLD occurs as a result of heavy alcohol consumption, while NAFLD develops in individuals who do not consume significant amounts of alcohol but have risk factors such as obesity or insulin resistance.

In its early stages, fatty liver may not cause noticeable symptoms, and the condition may be detected incidentally during routine medical tests. However, as the disease progresses, individuals may experience symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal discomfort, or a vague feeling of fullness in the right upper abdomen. Fatty liver can lead to inflammation and damage to the liver cells, potentially progressing to more severe conditions such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, or liver cancer. Lifestyle modifications are often recommended as the first-line treatment for fatty liver, including weight loss, regular exercise, and a healthy diet low in saturated fats and sugars. For individuals with underlying metabolic conditions or advanced liver disease, further medical management and close monitoring may be necessary to prevent disease progression and manage associated complications.

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