Fatty liver: THIS common leg symptom is an early warning

Liver diseases are becoming increasingly common across the globe. In the United States, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease. About 24% of US adults have NAFLD, and about 1.5% to 6.5% have NASH, its severe form. While many factors contribute to the development of liver disease, lifestyle factors have a crucial role, especially in NAFLD. Recognizing the signs of fatty liver disease early can make a huge difference in its treatment and outcomes. However, most tend to dismiss or ignore the early symptoms of less serious health concerns. One such sign is seen in the leg. Dr. Pradip Vekariya, a leading gastroenterologist based in India, explains the often-ignored, but crucial early signs of fatty liver disease.
What is fatty liver disease? Fatty liver disease, medically known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition in which fat builds up in the liver. While small amounts of fat in the liver are normal, too much can impair its function. There are two types of liver build up: alcoholic fatty liver disease, linked to excessive alcohol intake, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which is tied to obesity, diabetes, poor diet, and sedentary lifestyle. If left untreated, fatty liver disease can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), cirrhosis, and even liver cancer.
Video
Do not ignore this leg symptom
“Fatty liver is the new pandemic,” Dr. Vekariya said, referring to a significant spike in liver diseases across the globe. “Fatty liver can silently progress to liver cirrhosis if ignored,” he cautioned, in a video shared on Instagram.

So what is that one sign of fatty liver disease that shows up early? Pedal edema. This is a condition where your feet swell up. The gastroenterologist also shared a video of a patient who has pedal edema. If you have swollen feet, it should not be dismissed as something caused by standing for long periods or walking more than usual.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMFtAJLIASG/ https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMFtAJLIASG/

How to check if you have pedal edema?


Press firmly on your skin, usually on the lower leg above the ankle, for several seconds. If a dent or the ‘pit’ remains after you remove your finger, it indicates pitting edema.

“Pedal edema (swollen feet) may be an early warning sign of liver damage,” the doctor said. This early sign should not be dismissed.

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMFtAJLIASG/ https://www.instagram.com/reel/DMFtAJLIASG/

“Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Early detection and timely treatment can save your liver — and your life. Health ignored today can become a crisis tomorrow,” he emphasized.