Name: Fatty Liver Disease
Brand: GI Alliance
Rating: 5.0 (10 reviews)

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What is fatty liver disease?

There are two main types of fatty liver disease: non-alcoholic (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease. Fatty liver disease is a condition in which fat builds up in the liver cells. This can cause liver inflammation, which can, in turn, progress to scarring and irreversible damage. If the severity of the condition increases, or if it is left untreated, fatty liver disease can progress to liver cirrhosis and ultimately liver failure.

It is important to notice the signs your body is sending you and contact a GI Alliance gastroenterologist immediately if you are worried that you may have fatty liver disease.

What are the symptoms of fatty liver disease?

Fatty liver disease can often manifest itself in the body with no symptoms. Some of the symptoms that may appear, however, could include:

Pain in the upper right abdomen
Fatigue
Enlarged liver
Red palms
Enlarged blood vessels just below the skin’s surface
Abdominal swelling and swelling in the legs
Enlarged breasts in men
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Feeling full in the middle or upper right side of the abdomen
Nausea
Loss of appetite/weight loss

What are the causes of fatty liver disease?

There are a few types of fatty liver disease, with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver disease being the main two. The causes of the non-alcoholic conditions are not known, but they are linked to obesity, insulin resistance, high blood sugar, and high levels of triglycerides in the blood. Alcoholic fatty liver disease is caused by consuming too much alcohol.

How is fatty liver disease treated?

Treatments vary depending on the type of fatty liver disease and how damaged the liver is. Oftentimes, the liver is not at a critical state and continues to function as normal. However, if treatment is necessary, your GI Alliance physician may suggest the following:

Weight loss
Hepatitis A and B vaccinations
Liver transplant
Avoiding alcohol (if alcoholic fatty liver disease is present)

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What is the difference between NAFLD and alcoholic steatohepatitis?

Both non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic fatty liver (alcoholic steatohepatitis) can progress to cirrhosis and potentially liver failure. The primary difference between the two is that NAFLD is usually associated with overweight individuals and those with diabetes. Alcoholic fatty liver disease is exclusively related to high volumes of alcohol consumption.

Find effective treatment for fatty liver disease at GI Alliance.

For patients suffering from fatty liver disease, there is hope and treatment available at GI Alliance. Our physician-led network of GI specialists aims to provide patient-centric care that maintains the highest clinical standards. If you suspect or have been diagnosed with this life-threatening condition, call the gastrointestinal experts and trust your care to GI Alliance.