Most of us take no notice of our liver until it’s in trouble. But this hard-working organ performs multiple functions daily from filtering out toxins to helping us digest food and storing energy. When the liver is affected, the warning signs are often subtle and it is easy to miss the problem in its early stages.
Two of the most common liver diseases seen today are fatty liver disease and hepatitis. They are both effects on the same organ but they are not the same disease and they need different treatment approaches.
Fatty liver is the excess storage of fat in the liver. It’s associated with obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, poor diet and lack of physical activity. Most people with fatty liver do not have any symptoms at all. Some people may feel tired for no reason, a sense of heaviness or mild ache in the upper right side of the abdomen. Since the symptoms are vague, the condition is often found during a routine check-up.
Hepatitis, however, means inflammation of the liver. It can be due to viral infection like Hepatitis A, B, C, or E, fatty liver associated, excess intake of alcohol, certain medicines or autoimmune diseases. Unlike fatty liver, hepatitis can cause more noticeable symptoms such as fever, nausea, loss of appetite, dark urine, yellowing of the eyes or skin and persistent fatigue. Some kinds of hepatitis, if not treated, can permanently damage the liver.
Both conditions can start with few or no symptoms, so using symptoms alone can be misleading. Doctors can easily order blood tests, LFT’s and virology to see how the liver is functioning and an ultrasound or FibroScan to see how healthy the liver is and what may be causing the problem.
The good news is that many liver diseases are preventable — or even reversible — if detected early. Practical steps you can take to protect your liver long-term include maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, limiting your alcohol intake, avoiding unnecessary medications and getting vaccinated against Hepatitis A and B.
Your liver rarely complains until significant damage has already occurred. Listening to your body, going for regular health screenings, and seeking medical advice when something doesn’t feel right can help detect liver disease before it progresses. Early action today can prevent serious complications tomorrow and keep your liver healthy for years to come.
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