Hepatic steatosis is an excessive accumulation of fat in the liver. Normally, this organ contains a small amount of lipids, but when fat exceeds 5 to 10% of its total weight, it begins to suffer and malfunction.

There are two types of fatty liver disease:
Alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD): caused by excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): linked to a sedentary lifestyle, an unbalanced diet, obesity, or diabetes.

NAFLD is particularly concerning because it now affects 1 in 4 adults worldwide and can progress to cirrhosis if left untreated.

Signs that should alert you

Fatty liver disease is often asymptomatic, but certain signs should alert you:
Persistent fatigue
Abdominal pain or discomfort (right side, under the ribs)
Bloating and indigestion
Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes in advanced cases)
Loss of appetite and nausea.