Little-known red flags of 'silent killer' disease suffered by millions

The liver is a vital organ which helps remove toxins from the blood and turn food into energy, but one third of all adults are feared to have fatty liver disease.

While it may not initially cause a person problems, it can lead to permanent damage over time - and if untreated, it can result in cirrhosis, liver failure, cancer and ultimately death. Unfortunately, the condition does not present symptoms until it as developed, earning it a reputation as a 'silent killer'.

Symptoms come in the form of dull or aching pain at the top right of the stomach, extreme tiredness, unexplained weight loss and weakness. The NHS describe how the disease typically develops in four stages of steatosis, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, fibrosis and cirrhosis.

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The Mirror reports that the National Health Service say: "There are not usually any symptoms of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in the early stages. You probably will not know you have it unless it's diagnosed during tests carried out for another reason."

If you notice jaundice, itchy skin or swelling of the legs, ankles, feet or tummy and have a liver condition, you should see a GP with urgency or call 111. A professional may refer you for a liver function test which can diagnose conditions like hepatitis.

However, be aware that this does not always pick up fatty liver disease.

Ultrasound scans of the stomach may also pick up the condition. And while there are no specific medications for fatty liver disease, making healthy lifestyle choices can help.

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