What Are Standard Signs of Fatty Liver Disease?
10/6/2023
Liver disease is a common condition represented by an overabundance of fat in the liver cells. This may be caused by too much alcohol consumption, or it can happen in people who drink little alcohol. The disease might not present symptoms in the early stages; however, if left untreated, it can instigate grave liver issues. At Denver Digestive Health Specialists, we offer expert care for fatty liver disease. Continue reading while we review the typical signs and symptoms of the condition, how it is diagnosed and handled, and how our gastrointestinal specialists in Denver, CO can be of assistance.
Are there common signs of fatty liver disease?
Fatty liver disease is usually categorized into two classifications: alcoholic fatty liver disease and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Being able to recognize the first signs of fatty liver disease is crucial for timely treatment and management. Symptoms could include:
- Tiredness and weakness
- A high count of enzymes in the liver
- Abdominal discomfort
- An inflamed liver
- Unintentional weight loss
If you have dealt with multiple of these signs or have other problems affecting your liver health, we would like you to contact one of our Denver Digestive Health Specialists GI locations in Denver, CO.
How is fatty liver disease (steatosis) discovered?
The diagnosis of fatty liver disease generally involves a review of your medical history, a physical exam, and certain other tests. Our Denver, CO providers typically start by reviewing your symptoms and lifestyle and performing a physical examination to look for liver enlargement. A blood test will let us evaluate liver enzymes and function, establishing abnormalities that might signify fatty liver disease. Ultrasounds and other imaging tests, such as CT scans and MRIs, often allow our doctors to see the liver better and see the accumulation of fat. For some, a liver biopsy may be necessary in order to confirm a diagnosis. Accurate and early diagnosis of the disease is crucial for determining proper care and treatment regimens.
What treatment options are available for the disease?
Our treatment of fatty liver disease typically focuses on managing the underlying ailments and lifestyle factors that are related to the disease. This could involve more than one of the treatment methods listed below:
- Medicines: Certain medications could be prescribed to help control any conditions that contribute to fatty liver disease, including high cholesterol or diabetes.
- Routine monitoring: Check-ups help our team observe any change in your condition and adjust the treatments as necessary.
- Lifestyle adjustments: These may include not drinking alcoholic drinks, adopting a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and reaching a healthier weight (if overweight).
A liver transplant might be suggested in serious cases, like if extensive liver damage has resulted.
How might this diagnosis change life expectancy?
Life expectancy associated with fatty liver disease may be influenced by a variety of factors, such as the variation of fatty liver disease and how early on it is caught. If you do not get proper treatment, it may amount to a more serious liver problem, like liver cirrhosis or liver cancer. However, with proper treatment, a great deal of patients are successful in managing their condition adequately and often maintain a typical life expectancy.
Access care for fatty liver disease in Denver, CO
If you or a loved one notices symptoms of fatty liver disease, please immediately find professional help. The dedicated team at Denver Digestive Health Specialists is ready to help you with cutting-edge fatty liver disease treatments. By using a patient-centric process, we endeavor to help manage fatty liver disease and optimize the health of your liver. Make the first move toward better health and wellness. Call one of our locations in Denver, CO to request a consultation.