An increase in liver stiffness is the physical result of injury and inflammation leading to scar tissue, a process known as fibrosis. This measurement provides a clear indication of the liver’s health, but it is not a permanent state. The condition is often reversible with dedicated management. By addressing the root causes of the damage, the liver can heal, allowing stiffness to decrease over time.
What Causes Liver Stiffness?
Liver stiffness is driven by conditions that cause chronic inflammation. When the liver is persistently inflamed, it repairs itself by depositing proteins like collagen, which forms scar tissue. Over time, this accumulation of scar tissue makes the organ harder and less flexible.
One of the most prevalent causes is non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a buildup of excess fat in the liver not related to alcohol use. This condition is closely linked to metabolic issues such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. Another major contributor is excessive alcohol consumption, which directly damages liver cells. Chronic viral infections, particularly Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C, are also well-established causes of long-term inflammation and fibrosis.
Lifestyle Changes to Improve Liver Elasticity
Adopting an eating pattern like the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, can reduce liver fat. It is also important to reduce the intake of processed foods, especially those high in added sugars like fructose and sucrose. These sugars contribute directly to fat buildup in the liver.
Losing even a modest amount of body weight can have a significant impact. A weight loss of 3-5% of total body weight can reduce fat in the liver, while a loss of 7-10% can also decrease inflammation and fibrosis. This is best achieved through caloric reduction and consistent physical activity. Aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly helps manage weight and can reduce liver damage.
For liver stiffness caused by alcohol, the most impactful action is to stop drinking completely. Alcohol is a direct toxin to liver cells, so its removal is necessary to halt the cycle of injury. Abstaining from alcohol can lead to a significant reduction in liver stiffness and may even reverse some damage if the condition has not progressed too far. Some studies also suggest that regular consumption of black coffee may offer protective benefits.
Treating the Root Medical Conditions
For individuals with NAFLD, managing related metabolic disorders is a primary focus. This includes controlling blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes and managing high cholesterol with medication if necessary. Getting these contributing factors under control significantly reduces stress on the liver, which can halt the progression of fibrosis.
In cases of viral hepatitis, medical treatments can lead to improvements in liver health. For Hepatitis C, direct-acting antiviral (DAA) medications can cure the infection in most patients. Achieving this cure, known as a sustained virological response (SVR), is associated with a significant decrease in liver stiffness. While Hepatitis B is not typically curable, long-term oral antiviral therapies can suppress the virus, reduce liver inflammation, and lead to a decline in liver stiffness.
Tracking Improvement and Long-Term Outlook
Progress in reducing liver stiffness is monitored using a non-invasive test called transient elastography, or FibroScan. This procedure uses ultrasound technology to send painless energy pulses through the liver, and the speed at which these waves travel corresponds to the tissue’s stiffness. The results are given in kilopascals (kPa), with a healthy liver measuring between 2 and 7 kPa.
Follow-up scans allow doctors to track changes, as a decrease in the kPa value over time indicates a reduction in fibrosis and improved liver health. The long-term outlook for many people with elevated liver stiffness is positive due to the liver’s capacity for regeneration. With consistent management of the underlying cause—whether weight loss, alcohol abstinence, or viral suppression—the scarring process can often be halted and reversed.