Fatty liver disease can have serious negative effects on both your body and overall health. While it may not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, the condition can gradually lead to significant inflammation and scarring of the liver. Over time, this damage may progress to severe liver dysfunction, cirrhosis, or even liver failure if left untreated.

Fatty liver disease develops when the body consumes far more calories and fats than the liver is able to process efficiently. As a result, excess fat accumulates within liver cells, impairing their normal function. This condition is most commonly linked to obesity. In fact, studies show that individuals who are obese have approximately a 75 percent chance of developing fatty liver disease at some point in their lives.

In addition to obesity, other major risk factors include diabetes, insulin resistance, and excessive alcohol consumption. Alcohol-related fatty liver disease is particularly common, with an estimated 90 to 100 percent of people who chronically abuse alcohol eventually developing fat buildup in the liver.

Because early detection is key to preventing serious complications, everyone—especially those at higher risk—should be aware of the warning signs. Below are ten common symptoms that may help indicate whether you are developing, or have already developed, fatty liver disease.

1. Exhaustion or Fatigue

One of the earliest and most common signs of organ dysfunction is persistent fatigue. If you experience unexplained tiredness, weakness, mental fog, or a noticeable drop in energy levels, your liver may be under stress. Some people also begin withdrawing from social activities or daily routines due to constant exhaustion. These symptoms should not be ignored, particularly if they persist over time.

2. Jaundice

Jaundice is a well-known symptom of liver disorders, including fatty liver disease. It causes a yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes due to a disruption in bile flow from the liver. In some cases, jaundice may also present as itchy, yellowish bumps on the skin. Any signs of jaundice should be evaluated promptly by a healthcare professional, regardless of the suspected cause.

3. Changes in Urine and Stool Color

Liver dysfunction often affects the color of urine and stool. Dark-colored urine can indicate liver trouble, dehydration, or other health concerns. Additionally, blocked bile flow may result in pale, clay-colored stools with an unusually strong or foul odor. These changes are significant warning signs and require immediate medical attention.

4. Other Skin-Related Changes

Beyond jaundice, fatty liver disease can cause several other skin abnormalities. Patchy discoloration, particularly around the neck, underarms, or other skin folds, may signal underlying metabolic or liver issues.

Other possible signs include broken or visible blood vessels on the face, shoulders, chest, or back. Some individuals may also notice unusually red palms, whitening or irregularities in the nail beds, or overall changes in skin texture.

5. Abdominal Pain

Pain or discomfort in the upper right or central area of the abdomen can be a sign of liver enlargement or inflammation. In severe cases, this pain may be associated with internal bleeding. If abdominal pain is accompanied by vomiting blood or noticing blood in the stool, immediate medical care is essential.

6. Engorged or Swollen Abdomen

A swollen, tight abdomen that causes the belly button to protrude outward may indicate a condition known as ascites. This occurs when fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity due to impaired liver function. Ascites is often associated with advanced liver disease and should be treated as a serious medical condition.