Fatty liver disease is a condition in which excess fat builds up in the liver cells, leading to inflammation and damage to the liver tissue. There are two main types of fatty liver disease: alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Alcoholic fatty liver disease is caused by heavy alcohol consumption over a prolonged period of time. It is the earliest stage of alcohol-related liver disease and can progress to more serious conditions, such as alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis.
NAFLD, on the other hand, is not related to alcohol consumption and is more common. It is closely associated with obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels. NAFLD can also progress to a more severe form called non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), which can cause liver damage and scarring, leading to cirrhosis and liver failure.
Symptoms of fatty liver disease may not appear until the disease has progressed to a more advanced stage. Some common symptoms include fatigue, weakness, abdominal pain, and jaundice. Treatment for fatty liver disease includes lifestyle changes such as weight loss, exercise, and a healthy diet, as well as medications to manage underlying conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.