The Dangers of Severe Fatty Liver Disease

Severe fatty liver disease typically refers to a condition where more than 65% of liver cells undergo fatty degeneration. Patients often experience inflammation, cellular damage, and even necrosis of liver cells, along with the proliferation of fibrous tissue. This condition can lead to several serious health risks:

1. Progression to Cirrhosis

If left unmanaged, severe fatty liver can progress to hepatic fibrosis and eventually to fatty liver cirrhosis. This not only weakens the immune system but also significantly increases the risk of liver cancer. Early intervention is crucial in preventing irreversible damage to the liver.

2. Increased Risk of Liver Failure

Patients with severe fatty liver often have a reduced capacity to handle physical stressors. For instance, additional stress factors such as infections, alcohol consumption, viral hepatitis, or the use of hepatotoxic medications can overwhelm an already compromised liver, leading to acute liver failure, which can be life-threatening.

3. Higher Likelihood of Other Chronic Diseases

Research indicates a strong link between severe fatty liver and various other chronic conditions. These include cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke, metabolic disorders like diabetes, kidney disease, and even certain types of cancer, including colon cancer. The presence of fatty liver disease may significantly elevate the risk of developing these conditions.