Liver disease symptoms are easy to miss and develop quietly.

Research cited in the article reports about 96 percent of adults with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease were unaware, and experts say symptoms often overlap and can be subtle.

Liver damage often develops quietly and can go unnoticed until a medical diagnosis. The article cites research reporting that about 96 percent of adults did not know they had nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Experts quoted define liver disease as conditions that cause ongoing injury and can affect core functions such as toxin filtration, nutrient metabolism, protein and bile production, and energy storage. The piece notes that many common symptoms overlap and that some warning signs can be subtle. Key facts: - About 96 percent of adults with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease were reported as unaware of their condition. - Liver disease is described as ongoing injury that can impair filtration, metabolism, protein production, bile production and energy storage. - The article says common symptoms often overlap and that clinicians highlighted both common and subtle red flags. - Risk is reported to increase with age; the article notes the liver naturally shrinks in many adults 65 and older. - The article reports that a physician quoted recommends a low-sugar, low-fat dietary pattern, regular exercise including resistance training, limiting alcohol, and caution about certain supplements because some can cause liver toxicity. Summary: Undetected liver disease is reported to be common and can affect essential liver functions. The article indicates risk rises with age and that clinicians discuss dietary, activity and supplement-related approaches; next steps for individuals were not specified. Undetermined at this time.