What does it mean if I have a fatty liver, and how dangerous is that for my health?

Doctor's Answer

Photo of Dr Wai Leong Quan
Dr Wai Leong Quan

Gastroenterologist

There is a common misconception that fatty liver occurs only in people who drinks or are overweight. In fact, fatty liver can occur in people who are well and this condition is usually picked up from an unrelated ultrasound liver scan or blood test.

Most people with fatty liver are healthy and asymptomatic but some 20% may progress to liver hardening years down stream. The problem is thought to be related to abnormality in the handling of fats by the liver cells which may happen to people with diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol or people who are overweight.

It is worthwhile to note that fatty liver is reversible while liver hardening marks a stage of permanent liver damage which should be avoided. Simple measures such as exercise and weight reduction of 5-10% can help in fatty liver.

Other targets to work on include maintaining a good control on diabetes, blood pressure and blood lipids. There is some suggestion that drinking coffee may help with fatty liver. Lastly, consider monitoring your liver enzymes regularly at your doctor's clinic. At times, medicine may help especially in lowering the abnormal liver enzymes associated with fatty liver.

- Dr Quan

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