Fatty Liver Disease: Treatment Before Liver Cirrhosis

     Even if you are not overweight and do not consume alcohol, frequent consumption of high-sugar and high-fat foods can increase the risk of developing fatty liver disease. When the liver deteriorates, it can significantly impact your quality of life. How can fatty liver disease be treated? What foods should be avoided? And how should you take care of yourself after diagnosis? Today, we provide answers to these essential questions.

What is Fatty Liver Disease?

     Fatty liver disease occurs when excessive fat accumulates in the liver, leading to inflammation and fibrosis. Fibrosis develops as the body attempts to repair the damage. If left untreated for a prolonged period, it can increase the risk of liver cancer.

Although the exact causes are unclear, several factors contribute to the condition, including a high-calorie diet, side effects of certain medications, and underlying health conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Stages of Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver disease typically does not present symptoms in its early stages. Diagnosis is usually made through blood tests and ultrasound scans. The disease progresses through four stages:

• Stage 1 – Fat accumulates in the liver, but no symptoms appear.
• Stage 2 – The liver begins to show signs of inflammation. If left untreated for six months, it may become chronic.
• Stage 3 – Severe liver inflammation leads to fibrosis, where scar tissue begins to replace healthy liver tissue.
• Stage 4 – Liver cells are extensively damaged, impairing liver function.

High-Risk Groups Who Should Get Screened

Individuals at higher risk for fatty liver disease include:

• Those with abdominal obesity
• Individuals with chronic liver inflammation or abnormal liver function test results
• Patients infected with hepatitis B or C
• Long-term alcohol consumers
• Those with a family history of liver cancer
• Individuals taking medications or herbal supplements that may affect the liver for extended periods
• Patients with diabetes

Diagnosis of Fatty Liver Disease

Physicians use various diagnostic methods to assess fatty liver disease, including:

• Blood Tests These help evaluate liver enzyme levels to detect inflammation.
• Liver Biopsy A sample of liver tissue is taken for pathological examination to assess fibrosis.
• Ultrasound Scan This imaging technique detects fat accumulation in the liver. If fat levels exceed 30%, further tests such as CT scans may be recommended.
• Liver Fat and Fibrosis Measurement This method uses high-frequency sound waves to assess liver fat accumulation and fibrosis. The greater the fat content, the stronger the reflected sound waves.

Before testing, physicians will review the patient’s medical history and conduct a physical examination to check for signs such as inflammation, liver enlargement, liver cirrhosis, and jaundice.

Liver Scan: A More Convenient Diagnostic Method

     Liver Scan is an advanced diagnostic technology that provides a detailed analysis of fatty liver disease, including fibrosis, fat accumulation, and other liver abnormalities. It is a quick and convenient method for liver assessment.

Treatment for Fatty Liver Disease

Doctors can provide treatment while guiding patients on lifestyle changes, including:

• Avoiding alcohol consumption
• Weight management Patients with obesity should reduce their intake of sweets and fried foods and follow a diet plan under the supervision of nutritionists. In some cases, weight-loss surgery may be recommended.
• Vaccination Receiving hepatitis A and B vaccines can help reduce complications in case of infection.
• Managing underlying conditions Controlling diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure can help prevent fatty liver disease progression.

Comprehensive Care at the Gastroenterology and Liver Disease Center

     The Gastroenterology and Liver Disease Center at Ramkhamhaeng Hospital is dedicated to understanding patients' concerns and providing expert care. Our philosophy is: "Meeting every need with specialized expertise."