Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, is an increasingly common condition that deserves attention. The excessive accumulation of fat in liver cells can lead to serious complications, such as cirrhosis and even cancer. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the warning signs and know how to reverse this condition.
What is Hepatic Steatosis?
The liver is a vital organ, responsible for various functions in the body, including fat metabolism. A small amount of fat in the liver is normal, but when this rate exceeds 5% to 10% of the organ’s weight, it configures hepatic steatosis.
Types of Hepatic Steatosis
There are two main types of hepatic steatosis:
- Alcoholic Hepatic Steatosis (AHS): caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
- Non-Alcoholic Hepatic Steatosis (NAHS): associated with factors such as obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, and a sedentary lifestyle.
Warning Signs: Pay Attention to the Symptoms
In the early stages, hepatic steatosis is usually asymptomatic. However, as the disease progresses, some signs may appear:
- Abdominal pain: discomfort or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen.
- Tiredness and weakness: feeling of constant fatigue and lack of energy.
- Enlarged liver: the liver may become larger than normal, which can be detected during a physical examination.
- Loss of appetite: decreased desire to eat.
- Weight loss: in some cases, unexplained weight loss may occur.
- Constant headache.
- Swollen belly.
In more severe cases, when hepatic steatosis progresses to cirrhosis, symptoms such as:
- Jaundice: yellowish coloration of the skin and eyes.
- Swelling in the legs and ankles (edema).
- Ascites: accumulation of fluid in the abdomen.
- Mental confusion.
- Easy bleeding or bruising.
- Light colored stools.
- Sleep alterations.
Diagnosis: How to Confirm Hepatic Steatosis
The diagnosis of hepatic steatosis is made by a doctor, through tests such as:
- Blood tests: to assess liver enzymes and other markers.
- Abdominal ultrasound: to visualize the liver and detect fat accumulation.
- Computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging: in more complex cases.
- Transient elastography: to measure the amount of accumulated fat in the liver.
- Liver biopsy: in specific cases, to assess the degree of inflammation and fibrosis.
Treatment: Lifestyle Changes Are Essential
There is no specific medication to treat hepatic steatosis. Treatment is based on lifestyle changes, such as:
- Weight loss: to reduce fat accumulation in the liver.
- Balanced diet: rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, and low in saturated fats and sugars.
- Regular physical exercise: at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week.
- Control of diabetes and cholesterol: if present.
- Avoid alcohol consumption: in cases of AHS.
Prevention: Adopt Healthy Habits
The best way to prevent hepatic steatosis is to adopt a healthy lifestyle, with:
- Balanced diet.
- Regular physical exercise.
- Weight control.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Regular medical consultations.
Hepatic steatosis is a silent condition, but it can have serious consequences. By knowing the warning signs and adopting healthy habits, it is possible to prevent and reverse this condition, ensuring the health of your liver and your overall well-being.
