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how to know fatty liver
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Digestive Health
Question #13485
5 days ago
25

how to know fatty liver - #13485

Raj

I am really worried because I've been feeling super fatigued lately and had this bloated feeling in my stomach. My friend mentioned that maybe I have something like fatty liver, and now I can’t stop thinking about how to know fatty liver is actually an issue for me. I started doing some online research and saw stuff like elevated liver enzymes and weight gain, which actually describes me, but I'm not sure how to know fatty liver is definitely the problem. Last week, I went for a blood test, and my doctor seemed a bit concerned about my liver function. They said they might do an ultrasound, but I'm wondering how to know fatty liver would even show on that? I keep going back and forth on what I should do next, like am I just overreacting or is there a real chance that this could be a problem? I’ve tried changing my diet, cutting out alcohol, and exercising more, but I feel like I need more info. Can anyone help with how to know fatty liver might look in tests or what other signs to look for? Any advice would be so appreciated!

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Doctors’ responses

To understand whether fatty liver is a concern, there are several clues you can gather, both from symptoms and diagnostic tests. The fatigue you’re experiencing is indeed common with fatty liver, but it can be nonspecific and could be related to many other conditions too. The bloating could be associated, but alone it’s not a definitive sign. Elevated liver enzymes, like ALT or AST on your blood tests, often suggest liver stress or damage, frequently seen in fatty liver disease. If your doctor suggested an ultrasound, it’s a good next step. Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that can reveal changes in the liver, such as increased echogenicity, which is a hallmark of fatty infiltration in the liver. It won’t tell exactly how severe it is, but it gives a strong indication if fat is present. Since you’ve started making lifestyle changes, like diet and exercise, you’re definitely on the right track. Consistent efforts in reducing alcohol intake, losing weight if overweight, and a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, low in saturated fats, often help improve liver health. Additionally, monitoring liver function tests periodically could provide insights into how effectively your interventions are working. If you have not yet done so, ensure you discuss any new symptoms or concerns with your doctor to determine if more advanced imaging or a fibrosis assessment might be needed to rule out more serious liver damage. It’s not overreacting to be proactive about your health, especially since early intervention can prevent potential complications associated with fatty liver disease. Focus on staying informed and following through with your doctor’s recommendations, as they are best positioned to assess your specific situation.

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