Common symptoms
- Often no symptoms
- Fatigue or vague right-upper abdominal discomfort
- Abnormal liver tests
- Fatty liver reported on imaging
Risk factors
- Diabetes or prediabetes
- Central weight gain
- High triglycerides or metabolic syndrome
- High BP and sleep apnoea
When to consult a doctor
- Symptoms persist, recur or affect daily life
- A test report is abnormal or difficult to interpret
- Current treatment is not working or causes side effects
- Several health conditions or medicines need coordination
How the condition is assessed
Assessment reviews metabolic health, alcohol, medicines and other liver causes, then estimates the likelihood of significant fibrosis.
Possible investigations
- Liver and metabolic blood tests
- Ultrasound when appropriate
- Non-invasive fibrosis scores
- Elastography or specialist tests if risk is elevated
Tests are selected according to symptoms, examination and individual risk. Not every person needs every investigation listed.
General treatment approach
Care focuses on weight, glucose, cholesterol, BP and other drivers. Advanced fibrosis or uncertain causes require hepatology or gastroenterology input.
Lifestyle considerations
- Aim for gradual weight improvement when appropriate
- Reduce sugary drinks and highly processed food
- Combine aerobic and resistance activity
- Discuss alcohol and supplements honestly
Warning signs requiring urgent care
- Yellow eyes or skin
- Vomiting blood or black stools
- New abdominal swelling or confusion
- Severe persistent abdominal pain
If a warning sign is present, do not wait for a routine appointment. Seek urgent assessment.
Frequently asked questions
Can fatty liver improve?+
Often, especially before advanced scarring develops.
Is it always alcohol-related?+
No. MASLD is linked to metabolic risk, though alcohol still needs review.
