Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: when to get help
Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Get emergency help for:
Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
Black, tar-like stools
Severe confusion, unusual drowsiness, or difficulty waking
Fainting or signs of major bleeding
Sudden severe breathing difficulty with marked abdominal swelling
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek prompt medical advice if you develop new jaundice, increasing abdominal swelling, marked leg swelling, unusual bruising, or a noticeable decline in alertness.
These symptoms can have causes other than fatty liver, but they need urgent assessment.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if you have unexplained abnormal liver tests, ongoing right upper abdominal discomfort, or risk factors such as type 2 diabetes and have concerns about liver health.
Routine follow-up is also important if you have already been told you have fatty liver, even when you feel well.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.