Hepatologist shares quiet warning signs that may signal liver trouble

 

Hepatologist shares quiet warning signs that may signal liver troubl

Health experts stress that early detection is key, as lifestyle changes remain most effective intervention

Liver disease does not always come with dramatic symptoms, and many early warning signs are subtle enough to be dismissed in everyday life, according to hepatology experts.

Doctors say one of the most common misconceptions is that liver damage is only linked to alcohol consumption. 

While alcohol remains a major cause, specialists warn that metabolic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, unhealthy eating habits, and high cholesterol can also quietly damage the liver over time.

Dr. Tushar Madake, consultant in transplant hepatology, explained that fatty liver disease—now medically referred to as steatotic liver disease (SLD)—is increasingly associated with metabolic dysfunction rather than alcohol use alone. 

A major subtype, MASLD, reflects this growing connection between poor metabolic health and liver fat accumulation.

According to the expert, the early signs are often mild and non-specific, which is why they frequently go unnoticed. 

Persistent tiredness, increased abdominal fat, unexplained heaviness or discomfort in the upper right abdomen, and visible skin changes such as darkened patches around the neck or armpits can all be subtle indicators that the liver is under stress.

Doctors note that these symptoms become more significant when they appear alongside common risk factors including type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, or being overweight.

Because the liver can continue functioning normally in the early stages, many patients do not realise there is a problem until scarring has progressed. 

Specialists therefore recommend that individuals with these risk factors undergo routine liver function tests and abdominal ultrasound screenings. 

In some cases, additional non-invasive scans such as FibroScan may be needed to check for fibrosis.

Health experts stress that early detection is key, as lifestyle changes remain the most effective intervention. 

Weight management, regular exercise, a balanced diet, and avoiding alcohol can significantly reduce progression and improve long-term liver health.