signs and symptoms of fatty liver - #13950
I am really freaking out about my health lately. For about a month now, I’ve been feeling super tired like, all the time, and my stomach has this weird heaviness that I can't quite shake. I don’t drink alcohol and I thought I was eating healthy but I heard that there can be signs and symptoms of fatty liver even without drinking. I saw my doctor last week and he mentioned my liver enzymes were a bit elevated during my tests but didn't go into too much detail; just told me to watch my diet. This got me wondering more about the signs and symptoms of fatty liver. I mean, I read online about possible symptoms like right upper abdominal pain or discomfort, and I can't really pin that down but I feel off, ya know? Also, is it normal to have weight gain around the abdomen area? Is that one of the signs and symptoms of fatty liver too? It’s just odd cause I haven’t changed my eating habits much, or maybe I’m just in denial? I started to look up "signs and symptoms of fatty liver" and I'm even more confused about what they really are. Can someone share what they’ve experienced or what I should really be on the lookout for?
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Doctors’ responses
Fatigue and a sense of heaviness or discomfort in the abdomen can indeed be associated with fatty liver disease, particularly non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which you’ve already considered given your lifestyle. You’re on the right track by thinking about your diet and activity level because risk factors beyond alcohol consumption can contribute significantly to fatty liver development. You’re experiencing common symptoms like feeling tired and having a heavy sensation in the stomach area; these are relatively non-specific symptoms and can make diagnosis a little tricky. However, elevated liver enzymes, like your doctor mentioned, can offer a clearer hint toward fatty liver since they’re a marker of liver inflammation or damage. Right upper abdominal pain or discomfort is also often discussed as a symptom of fatty liver but isn’t consistently present in all individuals. Regarding weight gain around the abdomen, yes, that’s something you might notice, especially if paired with insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome, both linked to fatty liver. It’s also possible to have fatty liver with minimal or no symptoms, making routine checkups and liver function tests even more critical. Since there’s concern about NAFLD, focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains while managing portion sizes. Light to moderate physical activity most days of the week could help mitigate symptoms and control weight gain, potentially reducing liver fat. Given elevated enzymes, keep regular follow-ups with your doctor for ongoing liver function monitoring, and consider a referral to a liver specialist if necessary. Remaining attentive to your symptoms, particularly if they sway or intensify, is crucial. The absence of typical symptoms doesn’t rule out the disease, so it’s best to follow your doctor’s guidelines and not delay further evaluations if needed.
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