Find out what happens to the body when you ignore fatty liver disease

The liver is one of the most vital organs responsible for functions like aiding digestion, metabolism, detoxification, regulating hormones, storing essential nutrients, and producing proteins and enzymes for the body’s natural chemical reaction. As such, ignoring a fatty liver can be hazardous for overall well-being, as the condition is indicative of various underlying health issues.

“Fatty liver (steatosis) occurs when fat accumulates around the liver cells, and the process of breaking down fat slows down. This condition often goes unnoticed due to its asymptomatic nature,” stressed Dr Mallikarjun Sakpal, consultant, HPB and transplant physician, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore.

As such, this vital organ responsible for metabolising fats “becomes compromised and overburdened. This can further lead to inflammation (steatohepatitis), scarring (fibrosis), and potentially severe complications like cirrhosis or liver cancer,” said Dr Sakpal.

As the liver becomes more scarred, the risk of developing cirrhosis—a condition where the liver is permanently damaged—significantly increases, asserted Dr Chandan Kumar K N, senior consultant hepatologist and lead, Gleneagles Hospitals, Lakdi Ka Pul, Hyderabad. “Cirrhosis can lead to liver failure, requiring a liver transplant in severe cases,” said Dr Kumar.

There are various factors contributing to a fatty liver such as “diabetes, obesity, high levels of bad cholesterol, malnutrition, drinking too much alcohol, rapid weight loss, and taking certain medications”, shared Dr Rajiv Kovil, head of diabetology, Zandra Healthcare and co-founder of Rang De Neela initiative.

Here’s what to consider  

Over time, this excessive buildup of fat around the liver can trigger inflammation while indicating the risk of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). “It can increase your risk of developing health problems like fibrosis, cirrhosis, permanent liver damage, kidney diseases, high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and even liver cancer,” said Dr Kovil.

One can experience symptoms like fatigue, abdominal discomfort, nausea, loss of appetite, unintended weight loss, jaundice, and digestive problems. “Eating fried, processed, and unhealthy food that contains heaps of sodium, added sugar, and preservatives like chips, French fries, pasta, pizzas, cupcakes, bread, candy, sodas, panipuri, and vada pav can encourage the early onset of fatty liver,” noted Dr Kovil.

What can help?

Early detection is crucial, said Dr Sakpal, as fatty liver disease is often linked to metabolic syndrome, which encompasses conditions such as hypertension, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels. Lifestyle modifications, including diet, exercise, and weight management, can effectively reverse the early stages of the disease. ”

Eating a clean and healthy diet can help maintain overall well-being. One can prevent the risk of developing fatty liver by indulging in exercise for more than 45 minutes per day, regulating a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol. “Hydration is crucial; one should consume at least 2-3 liters of water a day,” said Dr Sakpal.

Doctors also urge scheduling regular health check-ups to know more about liver health.

https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/what-happens-to-your-body-ignore-fatty-liver-disease-9511173/