Commentary, J Liver Disease Transplant Vol: 12 Issue: 1
Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Alcohol and Non-Alcohol Related Fatty Liver Disease
Zhewen Brouwers*
Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
*Corresponding Author: Zhewen Brouwers
Department of Internal Medicine, Maastricht University Medical Center, HX Maastricht, The Netherlands
E-mail: brouwers.z@gmail.com
Received date: 08 March, 2023, Manuscript No. JLDT-23-95432;
Editor assigned date: 10 March, 2023, PreQC No. JLDT-23-95432 (PQ);
Reviewed date: 24 March, 2023, QC No. JLDT-23-95432;
Revised date: 31 March, 2023, Manuscript No. JLDT-23-95432 (R);
Published date: 10 April, 2023, DOI: 10.4172/2325-9612.1000225.
Citation: Brouwers Z (2023) Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Alcohol and Non-Alcohol Related Fatty Liver Disease. J Liver Disease Transplant 12:1 .
Keywords: Alcohol and Non-Alcohol Related Fatty Liver Disease, Obesity, High cholesterol, Type-2 diabetes
Description
Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, it is a condition in which fat accumulates in the liver. This excess fat accumulation can interfere with liver function and cause serious health problems. Fatty liver disease can be classified into two types: Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (ALD) and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD).
Alcoholic fatty liver disease
Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (ALD) is caused by excessive alcohol consumption. When alcohol is consumed in excess, the liver is unable to metabolize it gradually sufficient, resulting in the accumulation of fat in the liver. This can cause inflammation and liver damage. In its early stages, ALD may not cause any symptoms, but as the disease complicates, individuals may experience fatigue, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and jaundice. If ALD not treated, it can develop to more serious conditions such as alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is the most common form of fatty liver disease and it is not related to alcohol consumption. NAFLD is characterized by the accumulation of fat in the liver due to a variety of factors, including obesity, insulin resistance, and high levels of triglycerides in the blood. It is estimated that up to 30% of adults in the United States have NAFLD. In its early stages, NAFLD may not cause any symptoms, but as the disease progresses, individuals may experience fatigue, abdominal pain, and a general feeling of malaise.
Risk factors of fatty liver disease
Several factors increase the risk of developing fatty liver disease, including:
Obesity: Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for developing fatty live
Type-2 diabetes: Type-2 diabetes is a common risk factor for NAFLD, as insulin resistance can contribute to the accumulation of fat in the liver.
High cholesterol: High levels of cholesterol and other lipids in the blood increase the risk of developing NAFLD.
Metabolic syndrome: Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The presence of metabolic syndrome also increases the risk of developing NAFLD.
Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol consumption is a major risk factor for ALD.
Medications: Certain medications can increase the risk of developing fatty liver disease, including corticosteroids and tamoxifen.
Inherited liver diseases: Inherited liver diseases such as Wilson's disease and hemochromatosis can also increase the risk of developing fatty liver disease.
Treatment of fatty liver disease
Treatment for fatty liver disease is determined by the underlying cause as well as the severity of the disease. In many cases, lifestyle changes such as weight loss, exercise, and a healthy diet can be effective in treating fatty liver disease. For individuals with ALD, reducing or eliminating alcohol consumption is essential for managing the disease. In more severe cases of NAFLD, medications such as vitamin E and pioglitazone may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and improve liver function.
Fatty liver disease prevention
Prevention is essential when it occur to fatty liver disease. Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption are all effective ways to prevent fatty liver disease. Additionally, individuals with type-2 diabetes or high cholesterol should work with their healthcare provider to manage these conditions effectively, as they increase the risk of developing fatty liver disease.
