In Bangladesh, the prevalence of various chronic diseases is increasing in line with changes in dietary habits and lifestyle. One of these is fatty liver, or the accumulation of fat in the liver, which has now become almost an epidemic. It is called the “silent killer” because it often has no symptoms in the early stages. When the problem reaches grade 2, it is a warning sign that the risk of liver inflammation and long-term damage is increasing.
What is Grade 2 Fatty Liver:
Grade 2 fatty liver is a moderate form of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in which liver cells are significantly damaged. At this stage, the liver may begin to show signs of inflammation, increasing the risk of fibrosis or cirrhosis if left untreated.
Key points about grade 2 fatty liver:
● Moderate condition: Fat deposition has progressed beyond grade 1 but has not yet caused irreversible damage.
● Active treatment is required: Without timely intervention, grade 2 fatty liver can worsen and lead to serious liver complications.
● Mild to severe symptoms: Some patients are asymptomatic, while others may begin to experience signs of liver stress.
Causes of Grade 2 Fatty Liver :
Several factors can contribute to the progression of fatty liver to grade 2:
● Chronic obesity: Excess body weight, especially abdominal fat, increases the risk of developing grade 2 fatty liver.
● High cholesterol and triglycerides, which are high fat levels in the blood, increase the likelihood of liver fat building up.
● Uncontrolled diabetes and poor blood sugar control over insulin can accelerate the accumulation of fat in the liver.
● Poor dietary habits A diet high in processed foods, sugary drinks, and refined carbs contribute to liver stress.
● Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of regular physical activity slows down metabolism, fat storage in the liver
Symptoms of Grade 2 Fatty Liver:
Unlike grade 1, where symptoms are often absent, grade 2 fatty liver is noticeable but still mild. Common symptoms include:
● Abdominal discomfort: A dull or constant pain in the upper right part of the abdomen.
● Fatigue and weakness: Feeling tired despite adequate rest is liver stress.
● Bloating and digestive problems: As the liver struggles to function efficiently, symptoms such as indigestion, loss of appetite, or gas may develop.
Treatment options for grade 2 fatty liver:
The main treatment strategies for managing grade 2 fatty liver include a combination of lifestyle changes and medical interventions:
● Dietary changes: Focus on a low-carb, high-fiber diet with an emphasis on whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Reducing sugary and processed foods is essential.
● Exercise and physical activity: Regular aerobic exercise, strength training, or 30-45 minutes of brisk walking is recommended most days of the week.
● Weight management: Losing 7-10% of body weight significantly improves liver function.
● Medication: Doctors may prescribe medications such as vitamin E, metformin, or statins to manage inflammation, blood sugar, or cholesterol levels as needed.
● Medical monitoring: Regular check-ups and liver evaluations ensure that lifestyle changes are working
Apollo’s experienced hepatologists and liver specialists provide personalized care to patients with grade 2 fatty liver. Their expertise ensures that patients are provided with appropriate lifestyle guidelines, dietary advice to effectively manage the condition.
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