NAFLD is the most common type of fatty liver disease, and it is not caused by excessive alcohol consumption. It is often associated with other conditions such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Alcoholic fatty liver disease is caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
Symptoms of fatty liver disease may include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Abdominal discomfort
- Enlarged liver
- Elevated liver enzymes in blood tests
- Insulin resistance
Fatty liver disease can be diagnosed through blood tests, imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scan or MRI, and a liver biopsy in some cases. Treatment for fatty liver disease may include:
- Lifestyle changes: Losing weight, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise can help to improve liver health and reduce the amount of fat in the liver.
- Medications: Medications may be used to treat underlying conditions such as high cholesterol, diabetes, or high blood pressure.
- Avoiding alcohol: If you have alcoholic fatty liver disease, avoiding alcohol is essential for improving liver health.
- Monitoring liver function: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are important for monitoring liver function and preventing further liver damage.