Fatty liver disease, often silent in its early stages, can have significant impacts on your health and daily life if left unmanaged. So, what is it and how do you know if you’ve got it?
What is fatty liver disease?
Fatty liver disease occurs when fat builds up and represents 10% of the liver’s weight.
Fatty liver disease develops slowly and is linked to lifestyle factors such as:
- Overweight or obesity, especially around the tummy
- Having diabetes or insulin resistance
- Having high cholesterol
- Drinking too much alcohol.
If left untreated, fatty liver disease can lead to inflammation (steatohepatitis), scarring (fibrosis), and even cirrhosis or liver failure.
Genetic factors, certain medications, and rapid weight loss can also contribute to fatty liver disease. Some medications need to be avoided with fatty liver disease – it’s important to discuss this with your doctor.
How can fatty liver disease change everyday life?
In its early stages, fatty liver disease may not cause noticeable symptoms, but as it progresses, you might experience symptoms like fatigue, weakness, abdominal discomfort, or swelling.
More advanced cases, such as those with cirrhosis, can lead to severe complications, affecting quality of life and requiring medical intervention. Simple activities may become tiring, and dietary restrictions may need to be closely followed, affecting meal planning and social gatherings.
Life expectancy with fatty liver disease
It’s understandably worrying to learn there’s a problem with your liver. It’s a vital organ that you depend on for numerous functions.
One of the first things patients ask is how fatty liver may affect their life expectancy. It really depends on how early the condition is diagnosed and how well it is managed.
If your fatty liver disease is picked up in its early stages, you have a good opportunity to make lifestyle changes that protect your liver. However, if nothing is done, the fat cells will continue to build up and cause inflammation in your liver. Inflammation can lead to scarring and scarring can lead to cirrhosis, which can significantly reduce your life expectancy.
How do you know if you’ve got fatty liver disease?
We’d recommend:
- Taking an honest look at your overall health. If you know you’re overweight, have diabetes, high cholesterol or other risk factors for fatty liver, then it’s worth investigating.
- Booking a liver scan.
What is a liver scan and how does it help with fatty liver?
A liver scan inspects your liver for signs of inflammation or scarring, which may be due to fatty liver. It’s a non-invasive test that involves running a hand-held device over your skin above your liver. It uses a series of high-frequency sound waves to measure your liver’s health.
A liver scan provides vital insights into your health. Once you know what condition your liver is in, you’re able to take the necessary steps to protect it.
Managing fatty liver disease
Changing your lifestyle can reduce the pressure on your liver, halting or potentially reversing fatty liver disease. The new, healthier you should aim to:
- Exercise regularly – aim for 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week
- Eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, healthy fats, and plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Lose 5-10% of your body weight (if you’re overweight)
- Substantially reduce or eliminate alcohol consumption
- Avoid medications that can strain your liver (your doctor can advise you here).
Some foods and drinks are best avoided with fatty liver disease as they can contribute to fat build-up or place further strain on your liver. You may be advised to cut back on:
- Sugary foods and beverages, such as sugary drinks, sweets, and processed desserts
- Refined carbohydrates like white bread, pasta, and pastries
- Trans fats and saturated fats, commonly found in fried foods, processed snacks, and red meats
- Alcohol – even small amounts can cause liver damage.
Instead, focus on foods that support liver health, like leafy greens, fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, nuts, seeds, and high-fiber fruits.
Protecting your liver at Moonee Valley Specialist Centre
While fatty liver disease can pose risks, early detection, lifestyle changes, and medical guidance can help you manage it.
Moonee Valley Specialist Centre is one of the only private practices in Victoria to conduct liver scans using a state-of-the-art FibroScan® 502 Touch device.
You don’t need a referral for this service. You can simply book an appointment. We will scan your liver and advise you on its current state and what you can do to improve its health.
Book an appointment today.
Disclaimer
All information is general and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Moonee Valley Specialist Centre can consult with you to confirm if a particular treatment or procedure is right for you. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. A second opinion may help you decide if a particular treatment is right for you.
References
- Healthdirect, Fatty liver disease, https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fatty-liver#, [Accessed 8 November 2024]
- Liver Foundation, Your doctor says you have liver disease – now what? https://liver.org.au/tips/your-doctor-says-you-have-fatty-liver-disease-now-what/#, [Accessed 8 November 2024]
