Fatty liver occurs when excess fat accumulates in the liver, often seen in people who are overweight or have diabetes. While it might not cause symptoms, it can lead to serious health issues.
A healthy liver contains little or no fat, but excess calories from food and alcohol can turn into fat, stored in liver cells. If fat exceeds 5-10% of liver weight, it’s considered fatty liver. Common causes include obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and excessive alcohol consumption.
Symptoms can include fatigue, upper abdominal pain, and weight loss. Severe signs include jaundice, bruising, dark urine, and swollen tummy. Diagnosis typically involves a liver function test or scans. Treatment focuses on lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, weight loss, exercise, and avoiding alcohol. Preventing fatty liver includes maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and staying physically active.
