Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Symptoms

In the early stages of alcoholic fatty liver disease, patients often experience no noticeable symptoms. The condition may be detected incidentally during a routine physical exam when a liver ultrasound reveals fat accumulation, even though liver enzyme levels remain normal. This stage is commonly referred to as simple fatty liver.

However, if liver function tests show elevated levels of ALT, AST, GGT, or ALP, it may indicate progression to alcoholic steatohepatitis. At this stage, many individuals still do not exhibit clear symptoms, making early detection crucial. As the condition worsens and develops into advanced fatty liver disease, more pronounced symptoms begin to appear.

Common symptoms include loss of appetite, upper right abdominal discomfort, fatigue, and aversion to fatty foods. Some patients may also experience nausea and vomiting. In more severe cases, signs such as jaundice, skin itching, and low-grade fever can occur, indicating significant liver damage.

Once these symptoms manifest, it is a clear signal that liver injury has become serious. Whether diagnosed in the early or inflammatory stage of alcoholic fatty liver disease, immediate and effective intervention is necessary.

Abstaining from alcohol is the most critical step in managing this condition. For individuals who are overweight, weight management plays a key role in improving liver health. When liver enzymes become abnormal, the use of hepatoprotective medications may be recommended to support liver cell repair and reduce inflammation.

Early diagnosis and lifestyle changes can significantly improve outcomes for those affected by alcoholic fatty liver disease.