Excessive build-up of fat in the liver.
Very common (More than 3 million cases per year in US)
Diagnosis requires lab test or imaging
Treatment from medical professional advised
Can last several weeks or months
Mainly caused by heavy alcohol consumption, fatty liver can also be reported in non-alcoholic patients. Family history, overweight and obesity, diabetes, and some infections could increase the risk of fatty liver. Fatty liver generally does not show symptoms. Fatigue or vague abdominal discomfort may be experienced. Fatty liver can be reversed by attending to the underlying cause.
Symptoms
Fatty liver could be symptomless for many years or decades. Notable symptoms include:
Enlarged liver
Pain in the area of liver
Tiredness
Loss of appetite
Weight loss
Weakness
Nausea
Trouble concentrating and making decisions
Confusion
Dark colored skin on the neck or under the arms
In alcoholic liver disease, the symptoms worsen following a period of heavy drinking
Treatments
There is no specific treatment for fatty liver. It is a reversible condition that can be managed by making some lifestyle modifications to treat the underlying cause. Medications to manage conditions such as increased blood sugar and cholesterol levels may be prescribed.
Self care
If the cause is alcohol abuse, quit drinking.
If the cause is a prolonged diet containing foods with a high proportion of calories coming from lipids, undergo a weight loss program.