While we commonly associated liver disease with excess alcohol consumption, it can also be caused by a range of different lifestyle choices.
One cause could be due to a build up of fat, which is known at non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) - an umbrella term for a range of illnesses in the liver that affects people who drink little to no alcohol.
Experts from the Mayo Clinic in America say that the symptoms can vary from visual to almost unnoticeable.
The Mirror reports that how you feel when you wake up in the morning could be an early sign of NAFLD forming.
Officials at the NHS describe fatigue as an overwhelming tiredness that is not relived by sleep or rest.
We all experience weariness during the day at times, but the tell-tale sign there could be a real problem is waking up tired and feeling like you haven't slept a wink - despite getting a full night's sleep.
Other red flags include:
• Pain or discomfort in the upper right of the abdomen
• Abdominal swelling
• Enlarged blood vessels beneath the surface of the skin
• Enlarged spleen
• Red palms
• Jaundice
• Unexplained weight loss
Although these are symptoms of NAFLD, they can also point to other conditions.
The NHS advises: “See a GP urgently or call 111 if you have any of these symptoms and have a liver condition.”
Should the GP suspect NAFLD, blood tests, ultrasound, and a biopsy may be done to confirm a diagnosis. Patients occasionally undergo a CT or MRI scan, too.
Top tips to look after your liver
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Eat a balanced diet
- Take regular exercise
- Avoid toxins
- Practice safe sex
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