Symptoms of a Chronic Fatty Liver
It is not unheard of for the body's liver to store fat. It is, however, a problem if fat is more than 10 percent of the liver's overall weight. A high triglyceride level, or fatty acid content, in the blood stream can lead to fat deposits in the liver. Obesity and an uncontrolled diet are another cause, as is frequent use of alcohol or drugs. Users of prescription corticosteroids can also develop fatty liver.
While the condition itself is not dangerous, it can be precursor for much worse. Fatty buildup in the liver can lead to an inflamed liver, and inflamed livers often lead to scarring and hardening of the liver, or cirrhosis. While often linked to alcohol abuse, cirrhosis can occur from any liver inflammation, and it can be fatal.
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Noticable physical symptoms
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Chronic fatty liver does not present with very many obvious symptoms. It is usually detected through specific diagnostic tests. However, there can be increased fatigue, pain in the upper right abdominal area and unexplained weight loss.
Liver Enzymes
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Doctors screening a patient for cholesterol or triglycerides levels may also find increased liver enzymes. When blood is drawn to test cholesterol, the doctor may elect to run a full lipid panel. One of the tests on a lipid panel is the liver functions test (LFT). The LFT measures enzyme activities through the level of amino acids in the blood stream. The test specifically measures the aminotransferases called ALT and AST. High levels of ALT and AST show the liver's attempt to repair itself.
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Ultrasound
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When the LFT presents high levels of the amino acids, a doctor may choose to perform a liver ultrasound. This test can detect increased fat deposits in the liver and help the doctor determine the approximate weight of the liver. The ultrasound, however, cannot detect inflammation or scarring.
Biopsy
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Because ultrasound cannot detect the extent of the liver damage, the doctor may order a biopsy. The patient is given a local anesthetic and a needle is inserted into the liver to withdraw a piece of tissue. Lab technicians will examine the liver to determine the extent of the liver damage.
Treatment
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Treatment for fatty liver is usually intervention. It is usually a parallel disorder of obesity, and so weight loss, exercise and a healthy diet are typically recommended by healthcare professionals. Enzyme levels and fatty deposits will decrease over the course of six months.
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