Fatty liver is a term commonly given to a medical condition known as fatty liver disease. A fatty liver develops when a type of fat known as triglycerides builds up in the cells of the liver. This fatty buildup can cause the liver to become inflamed and swollen and may lead to complications that may affect the proper functioning of the liver. Treatments for fatty liver may include lifestyle changes, the use of prescription medications, and surgical intervention.
A condition known as steatohepatitis is often present in people who have been diagnosed as having a fatty liver. In fact, in most cases, these two conditions go hand in hand. Steatohepatitis is a medical condition in which the liver becomes inflamed and enlarged due to the accumulation of fatty tissue. Some of the conditions that may lead to this fatty buildup include being severely overweight, consuming large amounts of alcohol, and having medical conditions such as diabetes. Treatments for fatty liver typically begin with diagnosing the originating cause of the fat accumulation.
Excessive alcohol consumption is a common contributing factor in developing a fatty liver. Over time, this kind of extreme alcohol use can lead to more serious medical conditions, such as cirrhosis of the liver, which may lead to liver damage. Treatments for fatty liver caused by excessive alcohol consumption begin with the patient no longer drinking alcoholic beverages. This important step may not always reverse any liver damage that may have already occurred, but it may slow the progression.
People who are severely overweight or who have lost a large amount of weight rapidly are more at risk for developing a fatty liver. People with diabetes are also considered at higher risk for developing this condition, especially if the diabetes is not properly controlled. Maintaining a healthy diet and consulting with a doctor on a regular basis are important treatments for fatty liver that are based on prevention of the condition among those with the highest risk factors.
Prescription medications used to control underlying causes of fatty buildup, such as diabetes, are important treatments for fatty liver. Scientific studies continue in an effort to find medications that may be successful in slowing liver damage. In some patients with this condition, surgical intervention may become necessary. When severe liver damage has occurred, a liver transplant may be among the only fatty liver treatment appropriate for the patient. Fortunately, this type of drastic treatment is not needed in most people who are diagnosed with fatty liver disease.