What is Hepatic Steatosis?
Hepatic steatosis, also known as fatty liver, is a condition in which there is excessive accumulation of fat in the liver cells. The liver normally contains small amounts of fat, but when this accumulation becomes excessive, it can lead to damage and compromise liver function. This condition can be divided into two types: non-alcoholic hepatic steatosis (NAFLD) and alcoholic hepatic steatosis (AFLD).
How does it occur?
Non-alcoholic hepatic steatosis occurs when the accumulation of fat in the liver is not related to excessive alcohol consumption. It is often associated with factors such as obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, sedentary lifestyle, metabolic syndrome, and elevated levels of cholesterol or triglycerides.
Alcoholic hepatic steatosis, on the other hand, is caused by excessive and chronic alcohol consumption, which can lead to the accumulation of fat in the liver and progressive damage to the organ.
What are the symptoms?
In most cases, hepatic steatosis is asymptomatic, that is, it does not present noticeable symptoms. However, in some cases, vague signs and symptoms may occur, such as fatigue, abdominal discomfort, loss of appetite, and enlargement of the liver.
How is the diagnosis made?
The diagnosis of hepatic steatosis generally involves blood tests to assess liver function and liver enzyme levels. In addition, imaging tests, such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and hepatic elastography, can be used to visualize the liver and assess the amount of fat present.
How is the treatment done?
The treatment of hepatic steatosis mainly involves lifestyle changes. The main therapeutic measures include:
- Healthy eating: adopting a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low in saturated fats and refined sugars.
- Weight control: losing weight gradually and healthily, if necessary, through a combination of diet and regular physical activity.