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Fatty Liver Disease is a common but often misunderstood condition that involves the buildup of fat in the liver. While a healthy liver naturally contains a small amount of fat, problems arise when fat makes up more than about 5% of the liver’s weight. At that point, liver function can become impaired, especially if the condition progresses over time. Understanding what Fatty Liver Disease is, why it develops, and how it’s managed can help people take action early and protect their liver health.
First, the Name Has Changed
Recently, the name “fatty liver disease” was changed to “steatotic liver disease” of SLD. Medical experts updated the terminology to better reflect the underlying causes of fat accumulation in the liver. The new name highlights that this condition isn’t always tied to weight or obesity and helps reduce any associated stigma. Many people with SLD have risk factors unrelated to body size, and the updated language reflects a more accurate and inclusive understanding of the disease.
How Serious Is SLD?
For many people, early-stage SLD doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms or immediate harm. However, in some cases, it progresses through several stages. Fatty liver can become inflamed, leading to steatohepatitis. Ongoing inflammation may then cause fibrosis, where scar tissue forms and stiffens the liver. In advanced cases, extensive scarring leads to cirrhosis (where healthy tissue is replaced by scar tissue, preventing it from functioning properly), which significantly interferes with liver function and increases the risk of liver failure and liver cancer.
The good news is that early detection and treatment can slow, stop, or even reverse some of this damage.
Symptoms and Risk Factors
SLD often develops silently. When symptoms do appear, they may include fatigue or discomfort in the upper right abdomen. More severe symptoms—such as jaundice, swelling in the abdomen or legs, nausea, or unexplained weight loss—usually occur once cirrhosis has developed.
Risk factors for SLD include heavy alcohol use, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, obesity, hormonal disorders, sleep apnea, and certain prescription medications. Having one or more of these factors increases the likelihood of developing liver fat buildup.
How SLD Is Diagnosed
Because symptoms are often absent, SLD is frequently discovered during routine blood tests that show elevated liver enzymes. To confirm the diagnosis, healthcare providers may review medical history, perform a physical exam, and order imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI. Specialized tests like FibroScan can estimate fat and scar tissue levels. In some cases, a liver biopsy is needed to determine disease severity.
Treatment and Management
There is no single medication that cures SLD. Treatment focuses on managing the underlying causes. Common recommendations include avoiding alcohol, achieving gradual and sustainable weight loss, controlling blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and adjusting medications that may affect the liver. Vaccination against hepatitis A and B is also important for people with liver disease.
Outlook and Prevention
Many people with SLD live normal lives, especially when the condition is identified early. The liver has a remarkable ability to heal, and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce fat and inflammation. Preventive steps include regular exercise, limiting alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and following medical advice for managing metabolic conditions.
By understanding steatotic liver disease and addressing its risk factors, individuals can take meaningful steps to protect their liver and overall health.
