Fatty Liver Symptoms Reflected on Facial Appearance

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Understanding Fatty Liver Disease

Fatty liver disease is a condition whereby too much fat is stored in the cells of your liver. The buildup of fat can slowly decrease the function of the liver, meaning it cannot perform its usual roles within the body. This buildup can be caused by a range of liver conditions. If you consume minimal alcohol, it is referred to as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and is thought to be a consequence of insulin resistance. Alcohol-associated liver disease can be similar to NAFLD. However, it only applies to those who consume alcohol excessively. NAFLD often presents with very few or no symptoms — you may only feel tired or experience abdominal discomfort. Research indicates that genes, diet, digestive system, or certain diseases and health conditions may contribute.

Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease

The liver filters toxins from your blood. Negative effects usually start taking place when the fat infiltration of your liver reaches 5–10% of the weight of your liver — that is NAFLD. However, fatty liver disease is generally a symptomless disease unless there is a progression to liver failure. In some cases, acanthosis nigricans (dry and dark patches of skin that develop in the armpits or groin) or hirsutism (the development of thick, dark hair) can develop. However, this is often a symptom of an underlying disease, like metabolic syndrome.

Confirming Fatty Liver Disease

If you have noticed symptoms that are common to fatty liver disease, it is a good idea to speak to a medical professional to confirm these suspicions. Many of the symptoms of fatty liver disease can be caused by other conditions, so their presence is not necessarily confirmation that fatty liver disease will be your diagnosis. The medical professional will likely perform blood tests or a physical exam to aid their diagnosis.

Underlying Causes of Fatty Liver Disease

Multiple factors can contribute to the buildup of fat in your liver, including:

In some cases, fatty liver disease can develop despite none of these factors being present. Various other factors can also affect the likelihood of developing the disease, including gender. A 2021 study found that women had a lower risk of developing NAFLD than men, in the general population. However, once NAFLD is established, women have a higher risk of developing advanced fibrosis compared to men.

Reducing Symptoms of Fatty Liver Disease

The most effective way to reduce symptoms and treat a fatty liver is to make a plan with your medical professional. There is no medication currently used to treat fatty liver disease. Instead, you may be required to make lifestyle changes, such as:

– Minimize alcohol consumption

– Wash pesticides or unwanted toxins off produce

– Get vaccinated for hepatitis A and B

– Practice safe sex to avoid hepatitis

– Exercise and eat healthy

The Lowdown

Fatty liver disease can have detrimental effects all over your body, some of these on the face. By eating healthy, exercising, minimizing alcohol consumption, and protecting yourself against hepatitis A, B, and C, you can mitigate the risks of contracting it. Seek advice from a medical professional, as you may be able to reverse the effects of this disease and return to a normal healthy complexion and appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

– Why is fatty liver disease bad?

– What are the forms of fatty liver disease?

– Will fatty liver disease kill you?