Fatty Liver Disease: Common Symptoms and Underlying Causes

Fatty liver disease is a chronic progressive condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver cells. In the early stages, many individuals do not experience any noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, some people may feel fatigue, discomfort in the upper right abdomen, or a feeling of fullness and bloating in the liver area.

In more advanced cases, physical signs such as an enlarged liver or spleen may be present, and tenderness in the liver region might be detected during a medical examination. It is also common for patients to suffer from related health conditions such as hypertension, coronary artery disease, and cerebral infarction.

Diagnostic tests often reveal elevated levels of liver enzymes including ALT, AST, and GGT, along with increased blood sugar, cholesterol, and uric acid levels. A liver ultrasound may indicate hepatomegaly, which is one of the key indicators of fatty liver disease.

There are several causes of fatty liver disease. Chronic alcohol consumption is a well-known factor that leads to alcoholic fatty liver disease. In addition, certain medications can also cause drug-induced fatty liver. For example, long-term use of estrogen-based drugs like tamoxifen has been linked to this condition.

Metabolic syndrome, often caused by obesity, diabetes, and a high-fat diet, is another major contributor. These conditions create a perfect environment for the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Furthermore, Wilson's disease, also known as hepatolenticular degeneration, is a genetic disorder caused by a deficiency of ceruloplasmin, a protein responsible for copper transport. This leads to copper accumulation in the liver and other organs, which can cause severe liver damage, including cirrhosis. Although it is more commonly diagnosed in children, the early stages of Wilson's disease can resemble fatty liver disease.

Understanding the symptoms and root causes of fatty liver disease is crucial for early detection and effective management. If left untreated, it can progress to more serious liver conditions over time.