Do you experience persistent pain in the pit of the stomach and nausea? Pain in the solar plexus area and nausea can be signs or symptoms of fatty liver disease, especially if these symptoms last for a long time or occur periodically. Although not everyone with Fatty Liver will experience such symptoms, some people do. These symptoms are often a sign that your liver is inflamed or impaired. The liver is an organ that is important in maintaining the health of the human body. However, we often ignore signs that the liver may be having problems. One problem that can disturb the liver is fatty liver disease, or in medical language known as hepatic steatosis . This disease is increasingly common, especially among people with unhealthy lifestyles. One of the main signs of fatty liver disease is recurring heartburn and nausea.
What is Fatty Liver?
Fatty liver disease is a condition in which the liver accumulates abnormal amounts of fat. There are two main types of Fatty Liver disease:
- Alcoholic Fatty Liver (Alcoholic Fatty Liver)
Fatty Liver occurs due to excessive alcohol consumption and can develop into more serious problems such as liver cirrhosis. - Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)
This condition occurs in people who do not consume excessive alcohol but is often related to factors such as obesity, diabetes and insulin resistance.
So, what causes Fatty Liver?
- Non-Alcoholic Steatosis Liver Disease (NAFLD)
Fat buildup in the liver that is not caused by alcohol use. Although the exact causes are not yet fully understood, several factors have been identified as potentially increasing the risk of developing NAFLD, including high cholesterol levels in the body, consuming foods with excessive amounts of calories, nutritional deficiencies and unbalanced nutritional intake, suffering from diabetes and obesity. - Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD)
AFLD is an accumulation of fat in the liver caused by excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. The process of breaking down alcohol by the liver can produce substances that have the potential to damage liver cells and increase inflammation. In other words, the more alcohol consumed, the greater the risk of liver damage. AFLD is the initial stage of an alcohol-related liver condition. If not treated quickly, this condition can develop into alcoholic hepatitis and liver cirrhosis.
What Symptoms of Fatty Liver Does a Person Experience?
It is important to remember that in its early stages, fatty liver disease often has no obvious symptoms. However, some signs that may appear include:
- Heartburn: A sensation of pain, bloating, or pressure in the area of the solar plexus.
- Nausea and vomiting: Especially after eating fatty foods.
- Weight loss: Although not everyone with fatty liver disease loses weight.
- Unexplained fatigue: A persistent feeling of tiredness for no apparent reason.
Prevention and Management of Fatty Liver
To prevent and manage fatty liver disease, consider the following steps:
- Improve your diet
You can reduce your consumption of saturated fat, sugar, processed foods and alcohol. Choose healthy foods such as vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and lean meats to improve a healthier diet. - Regular exercise
Do regular physical activity to help control your weight and increase your metabolism. - Monitor your health
If you have risk factors such as obesity or diabetes, immediately have regular health checks with a doctor. - Reduce alcohol consumption
Reduce or stop alcohol consumption which has a bad impact on body health. - Consult a medical professional
If you experience persistent symptoms of heartburn and nausea, consult a doctor for further evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Fatty Liver Disease is a serious problem that can develop into more severe conditions if not managed and treated properly. So, if you experience excessive nausea and vomiting or other suspicious symptoms, it is very important to consult your doctor for a more in-depth medical evaluation. With proper lifestyle changes and appropriate medical attention, many people can overcome fatty liver disease and prevent more serious complications. If you experience symptoms of Fatty Liver, immediately consult a trusted and professional doctor at EMC Hospital who will provide integrated medical services for you. Remember to always discuss your lifestyle changes and health symptoms with your doctor and qualified health professional.
Article written by dr. Fajar Adesta, Sp.PD (Internal Medicine Specialist at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).