Here’s a detailed, clear overview of the signs of fatty liver (also called hepatic steatosis)—including symptoms, risk factors, and key notes:
Fatty Liver (Hepatic Steatosis)
What It Is
- Fatty liver occurs when excess fat builds up in liver cells.
- Common causes:
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) – linked to obesity, diabetes, high cholesterol
- Alcoholic fatty liver disease – caused by excessive alcohol intake
Common Signs and Symptoms
Many people have no symptoms early on, but some subtle signs may appear.
1. Fatigue and Weakness
- Feeling unusually tired or low in energy.
2. Upper Abdominal Discomfort
- Mild pain or fullness in the right upper abdomen (where the liver is located).
3. Unexplained Weight Changes
- Rapid weight gain or difficulty losing weight can be linked to fat buildup.
4. Enlarged Liver (Hepatomegaly)
- A doctor may detect a slightly enlarged liver during physical examination.
5. Jaundice (Advanced Cases)
- Yellowing of the skin and eyes, usually in later stages if liver function is affected.
6. Dark Urine / Pale Stools (Advanced)
- Can indicate liver dysfunction if fatty liver progresses.
7. Elevated Liver Enzymes
- Detected via blood tests (ALT, AST)—often the first clue for fatty liver.
Other Associated Signs
- Insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes
- High triglycerides or cholesterol
- Obesity (especially central/abdominal obesity)
- Metabolic syndrome
Important Notes
- Fatty liver is often silent until it progresses.
- If untreated, it can lead to:
- Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) – inflammation and liver cell damage
- Fibrosis and cirrhosis – scarring and decreased liver function
- Diagnosis usually requires ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, along with blood tests.
Preventive Measures
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a balanced diet (low in sugar and refined carbs)
- Exercise regularly
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Monitor blood sugar and cholesterol
If you want, I can make a diagram showing the signs, risk factors, and progression of fatty liver, which makes it easy to visualize at a glance.
Do you want me to make that diagram?
