A healthy, high-functioning liver contains a small amount of fat. However, when that increases, it can lead to complications.
What is Fatty Liver Disease?
Fatty liver disease occurs when excess fat builds up in the liver. It’s a common condition that can lead to inflammation, liver damage, and in some cases, serious complications like cirrhosis or liver failure.
There are two main types:
- Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): Fat buildup not related to heavy alcohol use.
- Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
NAFLD is now one of the most common liver conditions in the U.S., affecting millions of adults—and even some children.
Who is at Risk?
You may be at higher risk for fatty liver disease if you have:
- Obesity or overweight
- Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance
- High cholesterol or triglycerides
- Metabolic syndrome
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Sleep apnea
- A sedentary lifestyle
- A history of heavy alcohol use (for alcoholic fatty liver)
Fatty liver disease can develop silently, without symptoms, and may go undetected until liver damage has progressed.
Symptoms
Many people with fatty liver disease have no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they may include:
- Fatigue
- Mild abdominal discomfort, especially in the upper right side
- Unexplained weight loss
- Weakness
As the condition progresses, signs of liver damage may develop, such as:
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Swelling in the abdomen or legs
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
How is it Diagnosed?
Fatty liver disease is often detected during routine blood tests or imaging done for other reasons.
Diagnostic tools may include:
- Blood tests: Liver enzyme levels
- Imaging: Ultrasound, MRI, or FibroScan to assess fat content and stiffness
- Liver biopsy: In some cases, to confirm inflammation or scarring
Treatment Options
There is currently no medication specifically approved for NAFLD, but treatment focuses on lifestyle changes and managing risk factors:
- Weight loss (even 5–10% can make a big difference)
- Healthy, balanced diet (e.g., Mediterranean diet)
- Regular physical activity
- Managing blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure
- Limiting or avoiding alcohol
In more advanced cases, you may be referred to a liver specialist (hepatologist) or considered for clinical trials.
Living with Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease is a chronic condition, but it can be managed—and even reversed—especially when caught early.
Our multidisciplinary team at Hartford HealthCare includes hepatologists, dietitians, and navigators to support you through every step of care.
We are committed to:
- Early detection and diagnosis
- Personalized treatment plans
- Patient education and empowerment
- Ongoing support and follow-up