What are the Symptoms, Causes And Treatment of Fatty Liver
The liver is one of the largest organs of the human body. Livers are found in vertebrates. They usually weigh 3-5 pounds. They perform one of the most important functions in the human body, which is necessary for the life of humans. They produce bile, which is an alkaline liquid. Bile is an integral part of the digestion process. The liver also acts as a storage spot for Glycogen and produces hormones.
What is Fatty Liver Disease?
Fatty Liver Diseases (FLD) is defined as a build-up of excess fat in the liver, which inhibits liver function. It is also known as hepatic steatosis. This does not present many symptoms, but in some cases, people may experience tiredness on the right side of the upper abdomen. This condition puts the person's life in danger. In extreme cases, patients may also experience cirrhosis, liver cancer, and esophageal varices.
Fatty liver disease or FLD majorly occurs in two types:
1. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)
2. Alcoholic fatty liver disease
Primary Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease
The primary symptoms of fatty liver disease include:
- Swollen abdomen and legs or Edema
- Nausea
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Yellowish appearance in skin and whites of eyes, indicating Jaundice
- Mental confusion
- Extreme tiredness
- Weakness
Causes of Fatty Liver Disease
The primary causes of Fatty liver disease include:
- Alcoholism
- Type 2 diabetes
- Obesity
- High blood pressure
- Metabolic syndrome
- Insulin resistance
Treatment of Fatty Liver Disease
There are several ways of treating FLD, they include:
1. Developing Good Eating Habits: Get rid of potentially harmful foods, that could further the build-up of fat in the liver. This also promotes a decrease in body weight in people who have high body weight
2. A Balanced Diet: Only getting rid of fat accumulating foods is not the perfect solution, one would also have to adopt a balanced and nutritious diet to experience the best results. There are many food items which have a protective effect on the liver.
3. Regular Exercise: Regular exercise is an important factor to reduce and reverse the effects of the disease. Exercise is proven to reduce further issues from arising.
4. Maintaining Blood Pressure: It is advisable to maintain optimal blood pressure to not cause any further problems. People can do so by keeping their stress levels in check and also by reducing their intake of salt and other foods that are known to increase blood pressure.
5. Keeping Diabetes in Check: This is an important factor to be remembered as it is one of the major causes of FLD. Diabetes can be kept in check by following the necessary precautions as directed by the licensed medical professional.
6. Avoiding Consumption of Alcohol: The liver is the organ that breaks down the alcohol consumed. But after the liver is damaged, it makes it difficult for the liver to break down the alcohol. Hence, avoiding the consumption of alcohol would make it easier for the body to function properly.
7. Omega-3: Consumption of Omega-3 is also helpful in tackling the situation of fatty liver. Consider including the rich sources of omega-3in your diet.
Conclusion
Fatty liver disease is a harmful disease that can present itself without showing too many symptoms, making it all the more important for people who have type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity. The treatment methods are simpler as compared to other diseases. It requires a change in one's lifestyle, which is possible with regular practice. Getting health insurance is advised to gain financial security against such lifestyle diseases.
Disclaimer: This article is issued in the general public interest and meant for general information purposes only. Readers are advised not to rely on the contents of the article as conclusive in nature and should research further or consult an expert in this regard.
