Fatty Liver Disease And Its Impact On Overall Health

Fatty liver disease significantly affects the body and is categorized into three stages: mild, moderate, and severe. It can be classified clinically as simple fatty liver, fatty hepatitis, fatty liver fibrosis, or cirrhosis. During the early stage of simple fatty liver, patients may not experience noticeable symptoms, leading to a lack of awareness and delayed treatment. If left unmanaged, it can progress to liver fibrosis or even cirrhosis. Once cirrhosis develops, patients may experience various clinical symptoms that significantly impair their quality of life.

In advanced cirrhosis, complications such as ascites, jaundice, esophageal and gastric varices, and hepatic encephalopathy may occur. Varices can rupture and cause life-threatening bleeding, while hepatic encephalopathy affects brain function due to liver failure. Additionally, some patients face an increased risk of developing liver cancer, making early detection and management crucial.

Fatty liver disease can be caused by excessive alcohol consumption or may develop as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD is commonly associated with obesity, poor lifestyle choices, hypertension, and diabetes. This form of liver disease not only worsens existing cardiovascular conditions but also increases the likelihood of developing heart and vascular diseases. As a result, fatty liver disease serves as an important warning sign for potential cardiovascular complications.