Pain in the right hypochondrium: the doctor listed the symptoms of fatty liver

Fatty liver (fatty hepatosis) is a serious disease that can lead to cirrhosis or even cancer. Gastroenterologist and nutritionist Matvey Ostanin told Klops how to understand that the functioning of the organ is impaired.

Usually, there is not much fat in liver cells, but when it accumulates so much that the proportion exceeds 5-10% of the organ’s mass, we can talk about hepatosis.

“Very often at the first stage everything goes unnoticed. Many patients are not even aware of the problem. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms may appear,” said the doctor.

Symptoms of fatty liver

• General weakness. Accumulation of fat in an organ has a negative effect on its function, which reduces energy levels.
• Difficulty, severe pain. Discomfort and feeling of pressure in the liver area (in the right hypochondrium).
• Nausea. The most common symptom is after eating fatty foods.
• Diarrhea. In advanced cases of the disease, the skin and the whites of the eyes can acquire a yellow color.

“If left untreated, hepatosis can have serious consequences and even develop into life-threatening conditions. Cirrhosis, liver failure, fatty hepatitis, and liver cancer are particularly dangerous,” the gastroenterologist warned.

Several reasons influence the development of pathology. Dr. Ostanin identified the most common of them:

1. Overweight and obesity. A high-calorie diet combined with a sedentary lifestyle leads to the accumulation of fat, including the liver.

2. Type 2 diabetes mellitus and insulin resistance. Fat metabolism is disturbed, which contributes to their deposit in the liver.

3. Alcohol abuse. Regular consumption of alcohol damages liver cells and promotes fat accumulation.

4. Taking medicines. Long-term use of certain drugs has a negative effect on the liver.

5. Lose weight fast. A sharp decrease in body weight can also disrupt metabolism and lead to fatty infiltration in the liver.

6. Viral diseases. Increase the risk of fatty liver disease, for example, hepatitis B and C.

If you suspect liver problems, it is important to consult a doctor immediately. The doctor will order blood tests, ultrasound or CT scan. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary.

“A fatty liver becomes unconscious, but a timely examination and recommendations from health experts will help the organism for several years,” said Matvey Ostanin.