Fatty liver disease can be treated with relatively simple methods. Most cases of fatty liver do not require complicated medications, surgery or treatments. However, if drastic lifestyle and medication changes are not made, the problem may become quite serious. Unaddressed injuries and cirrhosis of the liver can lead to liver failure and the need for a transplant.
Avoid Certain Medications
If fatty liver can be contributed to medication use (e.g., aspirin, corticosteroids, Tamoxifen, Tetracycline or valproic acid), the prescribing doctors may elect to change the treatment or omit the drug altogether. The Merck Manual Home Edition suggests using alternate methods of treatment to avoid negative side effects to the liver, which include fat deposits, cirrhosis and permanent liver damage that may become hepatitis or require a liver transplant.
Weight Loss with Exercise
Penn State University's Milton S. Hershey Medical Center strongly suggests losing weight as the number one priority for resolving fatty liver problems. Excessive fat (especially around the abdomen) results in high triglycerides and repeated liver injury. Jackson Siegelman, M.D., recommends weight loss and exercise to reverse fatty liver conditions and to halt further damages to the liver. This will help to control diabetes and reduce the high triglycerides in an effort to avoid the onset of hepatitis.
Control Diabetes
Uncontrolled diabetes is a significant contribution to fatty liver. The American Liver Foundation posits that those with diabetes must make every attempt to control their blood sugar by eating a healthy, balanced diet. When blood sugar fluctuates or climbs to dangerously high levels, the liver is forced to work extra hard to reduce inflammation. New medications for diabetes with fatty liver are being introduced to the market and only time will tell if they are successful.
Treating Alcoholism
Excessive use of alcohol is also a strong contribution to fatty liver. According to the Merck Home Edition, fatty liver conditions related to alcohol use can dissipate within six weeks from abstaining from its use. The American Liver Foundation suggests that individuals with alcohol addiction seek treatment early to avoid permanent cirrhosis and liver damage.
