Fatty liver disease

Overview

Most fatty liver is linked to weight and blood sugar (now called MASLD). Heavy drinking causes another type.

In some people, fat leads to inflammation and scarring (cirrhosis) over years.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Told I have fatty liver or high liver tests
• Usually no symptoms

Less common

• Tiredness
• Dull ache under the right ribs

Look up a symptom: Fatigue · Told I have fatty liver or high liver tests · Upper right belly pain (under the right ribs)

When to get medical care

Causes

Extra weight, insulin resistance, diabetes, high triglycerides, and alcohol.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Obesity
• Type 2 diabetes
• High cholesterol

Possible complications

• Cirrhosis
• Liver cancer

Diagnosis

Often found on a blood test or scan done for another reason.

Questions you may be asked

• Alcohol use
• Diabetes and weight

The exam

A belly exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Liver tests:
• Ultrasound:
• FibroScan or blood scores: To check for scarring.

Treatment

Healthy habits are the main treatment.

Self-care

• Lose 7 to 10 percent of your weight: slowly
• Exercise most days
• Cut sugary drinks and refined carbs
• Limit or avoid alcohol
• Manage diabetes and cholesterol

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Get hepatitis A and B vaccines.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Keep a healthy weight
• Stay active

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a gastroenterologist or hepatologist (liver doctor).

Living with it

• Keep a simple diary of symptoms, triggers, and medicines to bring to visits.
• Bring a list of your medicines and questions to each visit.
• Note which foods make symptoms better or worse.
• Eat smaller meals and limit alcohol.
• Long-term illness can affect mood. Tell your doctor if you feel down or anxious.

Support groups and helplines

• American Liver Foundation: Helpline and support groups for liver disease.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people can keep working or going to school.
• Ask about changes that help, like extra breaks or a flexible schedule. Workers may be covered by the ADA. Students may get a 504 plan.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

For caregivers

• Go to visits when you can and take notes.
• Keep a list of medicines, allergies, and doctors in one place.
• Learn the warning signs that need fast care.
• Take breaks and ask for help. Caregivers need care too.

Outlook

Often reversible with weight loss.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Do I have scarring?
• How much weight should I lose?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Fatty liver disease