Fatty liver disease is emerging as a common health concern, with an increasing number of people being diagnosed with grade-2 fatty liver during routine ultrasound examinations. The term often causes anxiety among patients, but medical experts say the condition is largely manageable if addressed in time.

According to Dr Ajit Kumar from the Department of Medicine at GTB Hospital, Delhi, fatty liver occurs when excess fat accumulates in liver cells. While most patients are diagnosed with grade-1 fatty liver, grade-2 indicates a moderate increase in fat deposition and marks the stage at which active intervention becomes necessary.

“Grade-2 fatty liver suggests that the disease process has begun, but it is still reversible,” Dr Kumar said. “If controlled at this stage through lifestyle and dietary changes, long-term complications can be prevented.”

Earlier, fatty liver was commonly associated with excessive alcohol consumption. However, doctors now report a sharp rise in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), largely driven by poor dietary habits and sedentary lifestyles.

What does grade-2 fatty liver indicate?

Grade-2 fatty liver means that fat accumulation in the liver has increased beyond mild levels and must be reduced promptly. In most cases, the condition can be controlled without medication. However, if ignored, it may progress to liver inflammation, cirrhosis, or even liver failure over time.

Causes of grade-2 fatty liver

Medical experts attribute the condition to several lifestyle-related factors, including:

• Excessive consumption of fried and junk food

• Obesity, particularly abdominal fat

• High cholesterol levels

• Lack of physical activity

Common symptoms

Many patients remain asymptomatic, but some may experience:

• Persistent fatigue

• Mild pain or heaviness in the upper right abdomen

• Loss of appetite

• Indigestion

• Unexplained weight gain

How to manage fatty liver without medication

Doctors recommend lifestyle modification as the first line of treatment. Key measures include:

• Exercising for at least 30 minutes daily

• Gradual weight loss

• Avoiding fast food and sugary drinks

• Including green vegetables and seasonal fruits in the daily diet

Dr Kumar emphasised that grade-2 fatty liver should not be taken lightly. “This is the stage where the condition can be effectively reversed. Neglecting it can lead to serious liver-related complications later,” he said.