Published: 13 August 2026 · Department: Gastroenterology
Fatty liver disease means excess fat has built up in the liver. The common metabolic form is now called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), previously known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It often causes few or no symptoms, so it may be found during blood tests or imaging done for another reason.
The liver normally contains a small amount of fat. Fatty liver disease develops when excess fat accumulates in liver cells. MASLD is closely associated with metabolic risk factors such as overweight or obesity, type 2 diabetes, abnormal cholesterol or triglycerides, high blood pressure and insulin resistance.
Some people have simple fat accumulation, while others develop inflammation and liver injury. If inflammation and scarring progress over time, the liver can become damaged. Early evaluation is therefore important when fatty liver is suspected.
Fatty liver disease is often described as a silent condition because many people have no obvious symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may include:
Symptoms alone cannot confirm fatty liver disease. If you have ongoing digestive or liver-related concerns, the Gastroenterology Department at Westin Hospitals can evaluate the cause and recommend appropriate testing.
Fatty liver can have more than one cause. MASLD is commonly linked with metabolic health problems. Important risk factors include:
Fat can also build up in the liver because of heavy alcohol use, certain medicines, rapid weight loss, malnutrition or less common medical conditions. A doctor should determine the likely cause rather than assuming all fatty liver is the same.
Diagnosis usually starts with your medical history, physical examination and blood tests. Depending on the findings, a doctor may recommend liver-function tests, ultrasound or other imaging. Some patients may need additional tests to estimate liver stiffness or scarring and to rule out other liver diseases.
Westin Hospitals provides laboratory and diagnostic services. You can review the hospital's diagnostic facilities and health check-up packages.
Yes. Treatment depends on the cause and the amount of liver damage. For people with MASLD who are overweight, gradual weight loss, healthier food choices and regular physical activity can reduce liver fat and improve metabolic health.
Doctors may also focus on controlling diabetes, blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides. People with diabetes or other metabolic conditions may benefit from coordinated care with the Endocrinology Department. Medicines or specialist treatment may be considered for selected patients depending on disease stage and associated health conditions.
Avoid starting herbal remedies or supplements for “liver detox” without medical advice, because some products can injure the liver.
Consider specialist evaluation if fatty liver is found on an ultrasound, liver tests remain abnormal, you have metabolic risk factors, or symptoms such as persistent fatigue or upper-right abdominal discomfort continue. Early assessment can help identify people who need closer monitoring for inflammation or liver scarring.
Many people have mild disease, but some develop inflammation and progressive scarring. The level of risk depends on the cause, metabolic health and whether fibrosis is present.
Yes. Fatty liver commonly causes no noticeable symptoms and may be detected during routine blood tests or abdominal imaging.
Liver fat can often improve when the underlying causes are addressed, particularly through gradual weight loss, physical activity and control of metabolic risk factors. The amount of existing liver scarring also affects recovery.
A general physician can perform the initial assessment. Persistent abnormal liver tests, suspected liver injury or more advanced disease may require evaluation by a gastroenterologist or liver specialist.
If you have abnormal liver tests, fatty liver seen on imaging or ongoing digestive symptoms, you can book an appointment with the Gastroenterology team at Westin Hospitals, Madhapur. For assistance, contact Westin Hospitals.
Medical note: This article is for general health education and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a qualified medical professional.