Fatty liver, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition characterized by the accumulation of fat in liver cells. While a small amount of fat in the liver is normal, excessive accumulation can lead to inflammation and impaired liver function. Fatty liver is commonly associated with conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. 

Symptoms:

1. Fatigue: Individuals with fatty liver may experience persistent fatigue and weakness.
2. Abdominal Discomfort: Some people may feel discomfort or heaviness in the upper right side of the abdomen.
3. Enlarged Liver: In advanced cases, the liver may become enlarged, which can be detected during a physical examination.
4. Elevated Liver Enzymes: Blood tests may reveal elevated levels of liver enzymes, indicating liver inflammation or damage.
5. Complications: Severe cases of fatty liver can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and cirrhosis, leading to symptoms such as jaundice, fluid retention, and confusion.

Causes:

1. Obesity: Excess body weight, especially abdominal obesity, is a major risk factor for fatty liver.
2. Insulin Resistance: Insulin resistance, commonly associated with type 2 diabetes, can contribute to the accumulation of fat in the liver.
3. Metabolic Syndrome: Conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and insulin resistance collectively known as metabolic syndrome are linked to fatty liver.
4. Rapid Weight Loss: Sudden and significant weight loss can lead to the release of fatty acids from adipose tissue, contributing to fatty liver.
5. Certain Medications: Some medications, such as corticosteroids, tamoxifen, and certain anti-viral drugs, may contribute to hepatic steatosis.

Types:

1. Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD): The most common form of fatty liver, NAFLD is not related to excessive alcohol consumption. It encompasses a spectrum from simple steatosis to more severe conditions like NASH.
2. Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH): In NASH, there is inflammation and liver cell damage along with fat accumulation. This can progress to fibrosis and cirrhosis.
3. Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD): Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to alcoholic fatty liver disease. It may progress to more severe conditions like alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis.

Fatty liver is a reversible condition, especially in its early stages, with lifestyle modifications playing a key role in management. Timely diagnosis and intervention are crucial to prevent the progression to more severe liver diseases such as cirrhosis. Individuals experiencing symptoms or at risk due to underlying conditions should seek medical evaluation for appropriate guidance and management.