As a doctor of medicine, I can provide you with information on the symptoms that may indicate the progression of a fatty liver.
Fatty liver disease, also known as
hepatic steatosis, can range from mild to severe, and its symptoms can vary depending on the stage of the disease. Fatty liver disease often develops silently, with no noticeable symptoms in the early stages. However, as the condition worsens, certain signs and symptoms may become more apparent. It's important to note that the following symptoms can be associated with fatty liver disease but are not specific to it, meaning they can also be caused by other medical conditions. If you suspect you have a fatty liver or are experiencing these symptoms, you should seek medical evaluation for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or fatigued can be a common symptom as fatty liver disease progresses. This fatigue may not improve with rest and can significantly impact daily activities.
- Abdominal discomfort or pain: Some individuals with advanced fatty liver disease may experience discomfort or mild pain in the upper right side of the abdomen, where the liver is located. This discomfort can be dull or sharp and may come and go.
- Weight loss: Unintentional weight loss can be a sign of worsening fatty liver disease. As the liver becomes more damaged, it may struggle to process nutrients and produce necessary proteins, which can lead to weight loss.
- Jaundice: Jaundice is a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes and can be a sign of advanced liver disease, including cirrhosis. It occurs when the liver is unable to process bilirubin, a waste product from the breakdown of red blood cells, causing it to accumulate in the body.
- Ascites: In severe cases of fatty liver disease or cirrhosis, fluid may accumulate in the abdominal cavity, causing abdominal swelling and discomfort. This condition is called ascites.
- Spider angiomas: Spider angiomas are small, spider-like blood vessels that appear on the skin, particularly on the chest and face. They can be a sign of liver disease and may become more prominent as the liver damage progresses.
- Itchy skin: Pruritus, or itchy skin, can be a symptom of liver disease. When the liver is damaged, it may not effectively remove toxins from the bloodstream, leading to skin itching.
- Dark urine and pale stools: Changes in urine and stool color can occur as the liver's ability to process bilirubin is compromised. Dark urine and pale stools can be indicators of liver dysfunction.
- Loss of appetite and nausea: As liver function declines, individuals may experience a loss of appetite and nausea, which can lead to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.
Fatty liver disease can progress slowly over many years, and some people may not experience these symptoms until the disease is in an advanced stage. Regular medical check-ups, liver function tests, and imaging studies can help diagnose and monitor the progression of fatty liver disease. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption, are key to managing and potentially reversing fatty liver disease.
Source: quora.com by Dr. Benjamin McLean 
