AIIMS Expert Explains 8 Fatty Liver Warning Signs You Should Not Ignore

Fatty liver disease is becoming a major health problem around the world. More people are being diagnosed every year, and doctors say the numbers will continue to rise in the coming decades. This condition, also known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, develops when too much fat builds up in the liver. If not treated early, it can cause serious damage and lead to long-term health issues.

A recent study shared on ScienceDirect shows how fast the problem is growing. In 1990, there were around 24 million cases of fatty liver. By 2021, the number had increased to more than 48 million. Experts believe it could reach nearly 79 million cases by the year 2050. These worrying figures show why people should learn the early warning signs and seek medical help on time.

Dr Saurabh Sethi, a liver specialist trained at AIIMS, Harvard and Stanford, shared eight important signs that may show your liver is not working properly. He posted the information on Instagram on November 16, reminding people to pay attention to changes in their body. He wrote that these signs should not be ignored, and visiting a doctor early can make a big difference.

Doctors say fatty liver mostly grows quietly in the beginning. Many people do not feel sick until the condition becomes worse. This is why small changes in the body should be taken seriously. Dr Sethi explains that some people may notice pain or discomfort in the stomach area. Others may feel more tired than usual, even after sleeping well. Some may see swelling in their legs or stomach, which could be a sign of fluid buildup.

Weight gain, especially around the belly, is another common warning sign. This often happens when the body is not processing fat and sugar properly. Some people may also feel heaviness in the upper right side of the stomach, where the liver is located. Another sign can be loss of appetite or feeling full too quickly. These early changes can be easy to ignore, but they may show that the liver is under stress.

Dr Sethi also explains that yellowing of the skin or eyes can happen in more serious cases. This condition, known as jaundice, needs quick medical attention. People may also experience trouble concentrating or feel confused if the liver is not able to clean toxins from the body. These symptoms should never be left untreated.

Experts say that fatty liver disease is linked to a modern lifestyle. Less physical activity, unhealthy food choices, irregular sleep and high stress levels all increase the risk. Eating too much sugar, fried food and processed snacks can add fat to the liver slowly over time. Doctors also warn that obesity, diabetes and high cholesterol are main risk factors.

Early detection can prevent major health problems. Many people can improve their liver health by making simple changes such as eating more fruits and vegetables, walking daily, drinking enough water and maintaining a healthy weight. Avoiding alcohol and sugary drinks is also very important. Regular medical check-ups and basic blood tests can help find the problem early.

The message from Dr Sethi is clear: listen to your body, act early and protect your liver. With the growing number of cases worldwide, learning the signs is necessary for everyone. Fatty liver disease does not have to be dangerous if it is found early and treated with care. A healthy lifestyle can prevent the condition from worsening and keep the liver strong for many years.