Gastroenterologist Reveals Top Fatty Liver Disease Signs
Discover the critical symptoms of fatty liver disease, according to a leading gastroenterologist. Learn about the often-overlooked signs and how to protect your health with early detection. This information could be vital to your well-being.
The Top Symptoms Uncovered
Dr. Joseph Salhab, a gastroenterologist specializing in digestive health, shared the top three indicators of a fatty liver in a recent video. The expert highlighted key warning signs to watch out for to help people identify potential health problems.
1. Fatigue: A Common Complaint
One of the most frequently reported symptoms of fatty liver disease is fatigue. Dr. Salhab pointed out that the liver’s metabolic dysfunction and sleep disturbances may lead to this symptom.
2. Belly Pain: A Signal of Inflammation
Another symptom the doctor mentions is abdominal pain, especially in the upper right quadrant. The pain can arise spontaneously or after eating and can suggest active liver inflammation, Dr. Salhab explained.
3. Absence of Symptoms: A Silent Threat
The most prevalent sign of fatty liver disease, according to Dr. Salhab, is no symptoms at all. In fact, approximately half of those with fatty liver disease exhibit normal lab results. This lack of symptoms hides underlying inflammation.
“In fact, most people with fatty liver have no signs and no symptoms. Fatty liver is a sneaky disease because 50 percent of people who have a fatty liver can even have normal lab tests,”
—Dr. Salhab, Gastroenterologist
Current data suggests that approximately 25% of adults worldwide are affected by nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (National Institutes of Health, 2024).
Understanding Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease results from excessive fat accumulation within liver cells. If the fat buildup isn’t caused by alcohol, it’s termed nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It is important to monitor potential warning signs. The liver usually contains some fat. However, when fat constitutes more than 5 to 10 percent of the liver’s weight, this becomes alarming.
Early identification and intervention are vital. Consult a healthcare professional for any health concerns. Being aware of these symptoms can help people seek timely medical advice and manage their health more proactively.
