Define Fatty Liver
Fatty liver disease occurs when excess fat builds up on the liver. The liver normally contains fat to cushion and protect it, but large fatty deposits can lead to disease and poor liver function from inflammation. The term given to fatty liver disease is steatohepatitis. There are two types of the condition: nonalcoholic and alcoholic fatty steatohepatitis. Steatohepatitis should be treated and remedied so that cirrhosis does not develop.
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Causes
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Fatty liver disease is caused by several conditions. Since the liver has an excess buildup of fat deposits, the disease is mostly associated with obesity. The excess intake of fats builds up on the liver, and it is unable to process the fats. As fats accumulate, it causes inflammation. Inflammation leads to necrosis of tissue, so the liver is damaged and scars from the repair process. Alcohol can lead to fatty liver disease. Diabetics are also susceptible as well as patients with high triglyceride levels.
Symptoms
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Fatty liver disease is progressive, so symptoms are not always noticed. Some patients have no symptoms when the disease develops. Fatty liver is often never noticed until the patient sees a doctor for other issues or a regular checkup. Symptoms develop when the liver loses function. Patients report that fatty liver disease causes fatigue, abdominal pain and weight loss.
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Diagnosis
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According to the American Liver Foundation, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis is the third leading cause of cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is developed after the liver hardens and a loss of function develops. The most common way to diagnosis a possible fatty liver condition is detecting a swollen or enlarged liver. If the doctor suspects a fatty liver, he may order other tests to confirm the diagnosis. An MRI is taken, which shows the doctor an image of the liver. The doctor may also order a liver biopsy, which means he takes a sample of the liver tissue and observes it under a microscope.
Treatment
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Treatment for fatty liver is mostly through lifestyle and diet changes. The most common treatment is weight loss. Since obesity is associated with fatty liver disease, many people are urged to lose weight safely. Losing 1 to 2 lbs. a week is sufficient. Reducing triglycerides in the diet is also a form of treatment, since these molecules are what builds up in the liver. Physical activity helps with weight loss and is good for fatty liver treatment.
Prevention
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Prevention of a fatty liver is mostly through diet as well. People who drink heavily are urged to reduce alcohol intake. Controlling weight keeps the liver from building up fat deposits. Exercise is healthy for the liver and the heart, so it maintains the patients health for the liver and the cardiovascular system. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, and avoid high fat foods to stay healthy and prevent high fat deposits in the liver.
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