What Is Fatty Liver Disease?
Fatty liver disease is a condition that causes fat to accumulate in your liver (the largest organ in your body). There are two types: alcoholic fatty liver and non-alcoholic fatty liver.
- Alcoholic fatty liver disease is related to excessive alcohol use. With continued alcohol use, this condition leads to alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis.
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is not caused by drinking alcohol. The condition has two forms:
- Simple fatty liver – which doesn't typically cause liver damage
- Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) – which can cause cirrhosis
Risk Factors
Doctors don't yet know what causes non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, but you're at an increased risk if you have any of the following conditions:
Symptoms
Fatty liver disease usually has no signs or symptoms, but possible symptoms include:
- Tiredness – Feeling as if you need to rest or sleep more than usual
- Abdominal pain – Discomfort in the right upper abdomen
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type of fatty liver disease you have and extent of liver damage. Treatment options include:
- Losing weight – If you have non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, weight loss through diet and exercise can decrease the amount of fat in your liver.
- Not drinking alcohol – If you have alcoholic fatty liver disease, you should stop drinking alcohol. You may have more success with this if you seek professional help. Learn more about our Alcohol-Related Liver Disease Program.
- Medicine – Medicines are available to treat the symptoms and complications of cirrhosis caused by fatty liver disease.
- Liver transplant – Liver transplant surgery is an option when fatty liver disease leads to liver failure.
Ready for an Appointment?
If you're experiencing signs or symptoms of fatty liver disease, schedule an appointment or call 800-TEMPLE-MED (800-836-7536) today.
Learn more about our doctors and care team who diagnose and treat fatty liver disease.