My doctor says I have some fatty deposits in my liver, but not to worry about it!
Question:
My doctor says I have some fatty deposits in my liver, but not to worry about it. Does anyone know about this?
when I went to doc to monitor my blood as I am taking lipator for high closertail they descover some of my leveals are climing. Upon more test they found I have fatty depoists in my liver and the doctor told me not to worry about it. But I really am scared to death has anyone ever heard of this and what is the reason?
Thank you
Answers:
A fatty liver is considered harmless. It is considered to be a reversable condition, with no potential to lead to cirrohsis or liver cancer.
Right now it is believed that most cases of fatty liver are caused by endocrine disorders such as insulin resistance,chemical compounds such as alcohol, tetracycline, cortisone, phosophorous, and carbon tetrachloride, obesity or poor nutrition. Alcoholics run a risk of getting dangerous fatty livers. Nutritional causes of fatty livers include obesity, starvation, gastric by-pass, and malnutrition.
People at risk for getting fatty livers are alcoholics, type II diabetics (adult-onset diabetes), obese people, people who have had gastric bypass surgery, and people with high triglycerides.
Fat enters the liver through diet and fat stored in fatty tissue. It is usually metabolized, but if it exceeds what is required by the body, it may be stored in the liver, leading to fatty infiltration of the liver cells.
Obesity, sedentary lifestyle and diets high in fats and sugars increase the chances one will have a fatty liver.
Treatment at present consists of antioxidents, weight loss, healthy diet, some diabetic medications, and avoiding alcohol and other medications. I saw some studies that seem to show B vitamins and antioxidents lower the levels of fat stored in the liver cells.
Where the problem goes from harmless to harmful is if the body start reacting to the fat in the liver and swelling and producing scar tissue. That is a whole different ball game. Then you have very serious problems. Do a little research but do not confuse benign liver fat and serious liver fat issues or you will scare yourself needlessly.
Fatty liver is suspected when liver labs are elevated, but can only be properly diagnosed with a liver biopsy. Ultrasound is also used.
If the cause is not apparent, then further testing is in order to make sure it truely is a benign condition. Endocrine function and blood sugars would be a good start.
Good luck to you.