A 'silent condition' warning has been issued for up to one in five people who experience fatigue and a dull pain. The condition, Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatoic Liver Disease (MASLD), often has few early symptoms, meaning many cases go undiagnosed.
What is MASLD?
Dennis Ouko, Superintendent Pharmacist at Phlo Clinic, explains: "MASLD is a common condition where excess fat builds up in the liver in people who drink little or no alcohol. It's linked to lifestyle and metabolic factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol." It differs from Alcohol-related Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD), which is caused by drinking too much alcohol. Both conditions can lead to inflammation, liver scarring and liver failure if left untreated, but their causes and management are different.
Who is most at risk?
MASLD is strongly associated with being overweight, especially abdominal fat, which is why cases have risen alongside obesity rates. Those with type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or polycystic ovary syndrome are also at increased risk. It is generally more common in people over 50, or those who do not have a healthy diet and are not physically active.
Symptoms and early warning signs
While MASLD often has few early symptoms and is usually picked up during tests for other reasons, there are some warning signs to be aware of, particularly if you are in a higher-risk group. According to the NHS, early symptoms include:
- Feeling very tired or weak: If tiredness persists for several weeks, impacts daily life, or is combined with other symptoms, you should see a GP.
- Feeling generally unwell: You may notice a general sense of feeling unwell or run down, even without a clear cause. This can include low energy, mild nausea, or just not feeling like yourself.
- Discomfort in upper abdomen: Some people experience a dull or aching discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen, where the liver is located. This pain is often mild but can be persistent.
Less commonly, symptoms like unexplained weight loss or a loss of appetite can occur, particularly in more advanced stages, and should always be checked by a GP.
What to do if you suspect MASLD
Dennis Ouko advises: "MASLD has several stages and, if caught early, can often be managed with lifestyle changes. There are currently no specific medications to treat it, so early diagnosis is key. I'd urge people not to ignore persistent symptoms or try to self-diagnose. Speaking to your GP means you can be tested and either reassured or given the right advice and support to make effective lifestyle changes."
Track symptoms and frequency
As symptoms can be quite vague, keeping a note of anything that is not normal for you, including when it started and how often it occurs, can help your GP spot patterns and decide on the right tests or treatment.
Simple changes to diet and activity levels
Making small changes to your diet and increasing your activity levels can support your liver and overall health. This could include eating a balanced diet, cutting back on sugar and processed foods, and staying active. If you have ongoing symptoms or concerns, speak to your GP.
