Fatty liver disease
Also called NAFLD, MASLD, Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Fatty liver disease is a build-up of fat in liver cells, now called MASLD when it is linked to weight, diabetes, blood pressure or cholesterol. It is often silent and found on a routine ultrasound. In its early stages it can be reversed with weight loss and exercise, but untreated it can progress to scarring and cirrhosis.
Symptoms
- Usually none in early stages
- Tiredness or a dull ache in the upper right abdomen
- Abnormal liver tests or a 'fatty liver' report on ultrasound
Common causes
- Excess weight, especially around the waist
- Type 2 diabetes and prediabetes
- High triglycerides or cholesterol
- Alcohol (alcohol-related fatty liver)
How it is diagnosed
- Liver blood tests and ultrasound
- Assessment of liver stiffness to check for scarring (fibrosis)
- Tests to rule out other causes, such as hepatitis B and C
Treatment
- Gradual weight loss of 7–10% of body weight where needed
- Regular physical activity and a balanced diet
- Control of diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol
- Regular monitoring for fibrosis
Questions patients ask
Is fatty liver reversible?
In the early stages, yes. Steady weight loss and exercise can reduce liver fat and inflammation. Scarring that has progressed to cirrhosis is harder to reverse, which is why early assessment matters.
When should I see a liver specialist for fatty liver?
If your liver tests are abnormal, if you have diabetes or obesity, or if a scan or test suggests scarring, a hepatologist should assess your fibrosis risk.
Related care
Get fatty liver disease checked
Book a consultation with Dr. Anil Kumar Mannava. No referral needed.