In fact, for many people the fat is an indicator that they are at risk of developing other conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease, explained William Alazawi, Professor of Hepatology at Queen Mary University of London.
What are the warning signs of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease?
According to Professor Alazawi, some patients with fatty liver may complain of fatigue, nausea or abdominal pain, but for most people there are no specific symptoms and even patients with cirrhosis can feel fine.
“Symptoms such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), abdominal swelling, itchy skin, dark urine, pale stools and a tendency to bruise easily can indicate that the liver has reached the late stages of disease and is not working properly,” he warned.
“If you notice these, you should seek urgent medical attention.”
READ MORE: Fatty liver disease symptoms: Three visible warning signs on your skin – what to look for