Fatty liver is a condition where extra fat builds up in your liver. At first, it might not seem like a big deal.
Many people with fatty liver feel fine and don’t notice any symptoms. But if it’s not treated, fatty liver can turn into something much more serious over time.
There are two main types of fatty liver. One is linked to alcohol and is called alcoholic fatty liver disease. The other is not related to alcohol and is called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD.
NAFLD is now the most common liver problem in the world. It affects about 1 in 4 people. It’s often seen in people who are overweight, have type 2 diabetes, or have high cholesterol.
The early stage of fatty liver is called simple steatosis. This means the liver has fat but is not yet inflamed or damaged. However, studies show that 20% to 30% of people with fatty liver go on to develop a more dangerous condition called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, or NASH.
NASH is when the liver becomes inflamed and starts to form scars. This is when the real danger begins. A study published in the journal Hepatology found that people with NASH have a higher chance of getting liver fibrosis. Fibrosis means the liver is becoming hard due to scarring.
If fibrosis continues, it can turn into cirrhosis. This is when the liver is so damaged it can’t work properly. Cirrhosis can lead to serious health problems like liver failure, bleeding inside the body, and even liver cancer.
Another study in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that people with fatty liver, especially those who develop NASH, are more likely to die from heart disease. This shows that fatty liver is not just a liver issue—it can affect your whole body.
What makes fatty liver even more worrying is that it often develops without any signs. Most people don’t know they have it until it’s already serious. That’s why regular checkups are important, especially if you’re overweight, have high blood sugar, or have a family history of liver disease.
Doctors can use blood tests, ultrasounds, or MRI scans to see if you have fat in your liver. Finding fatty liver early gives you a better chance to stop it from getting worse.
The good news is that fatty liver can often be reversed in the early stages. Research shows that losing just 5% to 10% of your body weight can reduce liver fat and help improve inflammation and scarring. Eating healthy, exercising, and avoiding alcohol are some of the best ways to take care of your liver. In some cases, doctors may give you medicine if your liver is inflamed or scarred.
In short, fatty liver might seem harmless, but ignoring it can lead to serious problems like cirrhosis, liver cancer, or heart disease. The earlier you find it, the better your chances of stopping the damage.
Even if you feel fine, it’s important to take fatty liver seriously. Taking care of your liver now can protect your health for years to come.
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