Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition in which excess fat accumulates in the liver. It is a common disorder caused by a variety of factors including excessive alcohol intake, poor nutrition, metabolic disorders, and certain medications. In most cases, fatty liver disease is asymptomatic, but can sometimes cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, weight loss, and fatigue. The most common diagnostic test for fatty liver disease is a liver ultrasound. If left untreated, fatty liver disease can lead to more serious issues such as liver scarring (cirrhosis), liver cancer, and even death. Treatment depends on the cause of the disease, but may include lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, limiting alcohol intake, exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and losing weight. Medications can also be used to help reduce the fat in the liver. Statins, fibrates, and niacin are all commonly prescribed drugs used to treat fatty liver disease. It is important to remember that fatty liver disease is a serious condition and should not be taken lightly.