Fatty Liver Disease And The Possibility Of Pain: What You Need To Know

Fatty liver disease can sometimes cause discomfort or pain in the liver area. Often, this condition is first detected during routine health checkups when liver function tests reveal elevated levels of enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT). In many cases, fatty liver is discovered incidentally when a patient undergoes imaging tests like an abdominal ultrasound or CT scan for unrelated health concerns. At this early stage, individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms.

One of the most commonly reported symptoms of fatty liver disease is fatigue. As the condition progresses, more apparent signs may appear, including nausea, discomfort in the upper abdomen, and in some cases, vomiting or skin itching. If fatty liver disease advances to cirrhosis, patients may begin to feel bloating in the upper abdomen. More severe symptoms such as fluid accumulation in the abdomen (ascites), swelling in the legs, and jaundice may also develop.

In advanced stages, significant weight loss and diarrhea can occur. Some patients may develop complications like esophageal and gastric varices, which can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding. In extreme cases, hepatic encephalopathy may develop, causing confusion, altered consciousness, and other neurological symptoms. It is important to monitor liver health and seek medical advice if any of these symptoms arise. Early detection and lifestyle modifications can play a key role in managing fatty liver disease and preventing further liver damage.