The primary function of the liver is to purify the blood, detoxify the system and to store certain vitamins, minerals and glucose. Hepatic steatosis or commonly known as Fatty liver disease (FLD) is the accumulation of more than normal fat in the liver. If this condition is caused by excessive alcohol consumption, then we call it Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD). Fatty liver can lead to serious health conditions, like liver inflammation, cirrhosis and even liver failure. Do not ignore if you have already been diagnosed with FLD and get immediate liver treatment.

Causes of Fatty Liver Disease

1. Obesity
2. Hypertension
3. High cholesterol and fat in the blood
4. Overconsumption of alcoholic drinks
5. Sudden weight loss
6. High blood sugar or diabetes
7. Certain liver infections like Hepatitis C
8. Poor nutrition
9. Genetics.

Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease

The symptoms of fatty liver are mild during the initial stages, hence can be only discovered through proper diagnosis. If the condition deteriorates, you’ll notice the following symptoms:

• Tiredness or Exhaustion
• Abdominal pain
• Weight loss
• Swollen abdomen
• Nausea
• Poor appetite
• Confusion.

Diagnostic tests for Fatty Liver Disease

A correct diagnosis is required to pinpoint Hepatic Steatosis. Your medical history is extremely important for the doctor to find out the exact cause of FLD, so ensure that you provide accurate previous medical reports and answer all the questions precisely. The medical professional will recommend the diagnostic tests as mentioned below:

• Physical exam, in which the doctor presses on your abdomen to check for any enlargement.
• Liver function tests, which are certain blood tests to determine the health of your liver.
• Diagnostic imaging tests, such as Ultrasound, MRI and CT scan, to find the presence of excessive fat in the liver.
• Liver biopsy, in which a tissue sample of your liver is collected to inspect the liver’s condition and damage.

There’s no specific treatment for Hepatic steatosis but with certain changes in the lifestyle and medical guidance, the damage can be reversed and the condition can be in full control. Let’s look at the lifestyle changes you are most likely to be prescribed by the gastroenterologist.

1. Avoid drinking alcohol (in case of Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD).
2. Eating a healthy and well-balanced diet.
3. Losing weight.
4. Getting regular check-ups and treatment from the concerned doctor.

You can always visit ILS Hospitals, one of the best hospitals in Kolkata and Agartala for any kind of medical help.