Fatty Liver

Fatty liver disease, or FLD, is the condition that marks an excessive accumulation of fat within the cells of the liver. This condition is not considered to be normal for any individual, but it is not likely to result in damage that is permanent in nature.

However, individuals that experience an accumulation of fat in this organ may experience other health complications that could have a negative impact on their overall health. One of the main health concerns that individuals with fatty liver may experience is inflammation of the liver.

Once this occurs, it could result in the onset of scarring of the liver. This is referred to as cirrhosis. This is considered to be one of the most serious of all liver-related medical conditions.

 Causes of Fatty Liver Disease 

Many are under the misconception that a fatty liver is based on how much fat filled foods that a person consumes. In all actuality, medical professionals are still struggling with identifying one particular cause of this condition. It has been established that the liver plays a very important role in the process of metabolism that involves breaking down fats in the body.

It is believed that some type of error is experienced in this process and much of the fat is retained in this organ. Individuals that are overweight or are considered to be obese often experience this condition. If an individual has a high level of triglycerides in the body, they are likely to suffer from a fatty liver.

Individuals that have certain health complications such as diabetes and tuberculosis may experience this liver problem. It is also common for those that take certain medications and drink alcohol heavily to develop this problem. 

Symptoms 

While fatty liver has the capability of resulting in serious health consequences, it is not often that actual symptoms are experienced by a patient. As a matter of fact, nearly all cases of this liver problem are identified through an examination or a medical evaluation that is working to determine if another issue is being experienced by the patient.

There are blood tests that are able to determine the amount of liver based enzymes in the blood. In other instances, an electronic imaging test such as a CAT Scan, MRI, or ultrasound may be able to identify the fact that the liver is swollen or inflamed. If a doctor suspects that the liver may contain a lot of fat, they are usually able to make a diagnosis immediately.

However, there are some medical professionals that will elect to perform a biopsy to confirm a diagnosis. If you have been informed of the fact that you suffer from fatty liver or fatty liver disease, it is important to work directly with your doctor on a treatment plan. By doing so, you may be able to reverse the damage that has been done to this vital organ.