Symptoms, warning signs and the importance of early diagnosis

The presence of fat in the liver, also known as fatty liver, is associated with factors such as improper diet, lack of exercise, and metabolic disorders, and is a symptom increasingly observed in medical practice. Even if there are no symptoms at first, the disease progresses and may become noticeable. It is important to understand the symptoms of this liver disorder in order to seek professional guidance early and avoid possible complications.

Fatty liver disease can affect people of different ages and lifestyles, but its highest incidence is in adults over 40 who have a history of being overweight or obese, diabetes, or frequent consumption of alcoholic beverages. Many people have no symptoms at first, but as the disease progresses to more advanced stages, symptoms may appear that affect quality of life.

What are the most common symptoms of fatty liver?

Most people with fatty liver do not notice any changes early in the disease. However, when symptoms do appear, they are usually mild and nonspecific, making immediate diagnosis difficult. Some of the main symptoms that have been reported require special attention.

• Abdominal discomfort: Heaviness, mild pain or discomfort in the upper right quadrant, mainly where the liver is.
• Frequent feeling of fatigue: Fatigue and low energy are common symptoms and can be confused with symptoms of other illnesses.
• Anorexia: In some cases, appetite may decrease and weight loss may occur unintentionally.
• nausea: It can occur mainly after eating fatty meals.
• Abdominal bloating: Fat accumulation can cause bloating.

When are fatty liver symptoms more noticeable?

As fatty liver disease worsens, it can lead to inflammation of the liver, a condition called steatohepatitis. At this stage, the following symptoms become more obvious:

1. jaundice: Yellow skin and eyes appear, and dysfunction of hepatic bilirubin metabolism is reported.
2. Dark urine: Changes in the removal of bile pigments can cause this color.
3. Body itching: Accumulation of unmetabolized substances stimulates itching.
4. Mental confusion or drowsiness: It indicates progression to more severe stages, such as liver failure.

However, most do not progress to these advanced stages. Proper medical monitoring is critical to monitor the condition and provide guidance on lifestyle changes and possible treatments.

How can I detect fatty liver early?

Although there are common symptoms, the diagnosis of fatty liver often relies on laboratory tests and imaging tests. Tests such as abdominal ultrasound and liver enzyme measurements can help detect symptoms in the early stages, even in the absence of clinical symptoms. Therefore, people with risk factors such as obesity, dyslipidemia, diabetes, and family history of liver disease should be tested regularly.

• Frequent follow-ups with a health care professional can monitor changes in liver function.
• Adopting a balanced diet and performing regular physical activity are measures that contribute to the prevention and control of fatty liver.
• Reducing alcohol intake and controlling weight are basic strategies for people in risk groups.

Recognizing the signs of fatty liver disease allows for early intervention and reduces the chance of progression to more severe liver disease. Clarifying symptoms can help people seek professional help if they experience persistent abdominal discomfort or other changes that may suggest liver changes in 2025.