Understanding NAFLD, AFLD, and the Overlooked Types of Fatty Liver
Fatty liver is becoming increasingly common due to modern lifestyles, poor diets, and sedentary habits. It happens when excess fat builds up in liver cells, often silently, without symptoms. Among the most important things to understand is that there are different types of fatty liver disease, each with unique causes, risks, and outcomes. Recognizing these types helps guide proper treatment and prevention.
Types of Fatty Liver Disease: NAFLD and AFLD
There are primarily two types of fatty liver disease:
1. NAFLD (Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease):
This is the most common form and occurs in people who drink little or no alcohol. It’s strongly linked to obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol, and poor diet. NAFLD can be harmless at first (simple fatty liver) but may progress to NASH (Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis), which causes inflammation and may lead to fibrosis or even cirrhosis.
-
AFLD (Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease):
AFLD is caused by heavy alcohol intake. Alcohol metabolism generates harmful substances that damage liver cells. If alcohol consumption continues, the condition can progress to alcoholic hepatitis or cirrhosis—both of which are serious and potentially life-threatening.
Types of Fatty Liver Disease: Rare and Overlapping Cases
Though NAFLD and AFLD are the major categories, some individuals may experience overlapping conditions. For example, someone with metabolic syndrome who also drinks alcohol can have a mixed form of liver damage. Rare causes of fatty liver include certain medications, rapid weight loss, viral hepatitis, and genetic disorders.
Healthcare Note:
Fatty liver is often reversible—especially in its early stages. A healthy diet, regular physical activity, limited alcohol intake, and blood sugar control can significantly improve liver health. Routine check-ups and liver function tests can help monitor and manage the condition early.
