The prevalence of fatty liver disease among young individuals in the US is rising. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is thought to affect 25–38% of adults worldwide, and the prevalence is increasing. Since fatty liver can develop into serious liver diseases like cirrhosis and, in the worst situations, necessitate a liver transplant, early detection and treatment are essential. Early detection of the symptoms can help reverse the disease and avert these problems. California-based board-certified gastroenterologist Dr. Saurabh Sethi, who received training at Harvard and Stanford, has now described eight warning indicators of fatty liver that should not be disregarded.
Unaccounted-for weight gain:
Weight gain that occurs suddenly or without explanation is an indication of fatty liver. Dr. Sethi highlights that concentrated weight gain around the belly could indicate the early stages of fatty liver disease. Numerous studies have demonstrated a connection between obesity and central weight growth and excess fat stored in the liver.
Chronic exhaustion:
Constant fatigue should be taken seriously. Even after getting enough sleep, if you continue to feel weak or exhausted, it could indicate liver disease. One may have low energy levels when the liver is not functioning properly since it plays a critical part in energy metabolism.
Pain and swelling in the abdomen:
Discomfort and swelling in the abdominal region, which houses the liver, are important symptoms to watch for. According to Dr. Sethi, “Upper right abdominal pain and swelling may indicate fatty liver disease.” Edema, or inflammation from the liver’s fat buildup, may cause this pain.
Pale poo and dark urine:
You should pay attention to any changes in your stool or urine. Dr. Sethi suggests that pale stool and black urine indicate liver dysfunction. This state is brought on by decreased bile flow or production, which is frequently associated with fatty liver disease.
Whitening of the eyes and skin:
“Advanced fatty liver disease is indicated by jaundice, which is yellowing of the skin and eyes,” Dr. Sethi cautions. When your body accumulates bilirubin, it causes yellowing of the skin or eyes. Now is the time to take action.
Elevated blood glucose levels:
You should also assess your liver function if your usual blood work indicates insulin resistance and excessive blood sugar. A typical feature of fatty liver disease is elevated blood levels associated with insulin resistance. Additionally, over time, the condition may raise the risk of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes.
Elevated cholesterol levels:
Patients with fatty liver disease exhibit elevated levels of triglycerides and cholesterol. According to Dr. Sethi, these risks coexist with fatty liver disease. You might want to assess your liver function as well if your blood testing indicates increased triglycerides and cholesterol.
Simple bleeding and bruises:
You should be concerned if you are prone to bleeding or becoming bruised. According to Dr. Sethi, individuals with advanced fatty liver disease may experience this. In certain situations, the liver could find it difficult to make enough of the proteins needed for blood coagulation. Often overlooked, this symptom could potentially signal fatty liver.
Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a health advice. We would ask you to consult a qualified professional or medical expert to gain additional knowledge before you choose to consume any product or perform any exercise.
