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The liver is the second largest organ in the human body and performs over 500 vital functions, such as digesting food, eliminating toxins, and storing energy. However, the problem of fatty liver is rapidly increasing due to modern unhealthy lifestyles, excessive consumption of refined foods, and a lack of physical activity. Initially, the symptoms of fatty liver are not very obvious, leading people to ignore them. However, our body begins to signal internal problems through many channels, one of the most important and obvious of which is our eyes and the skin around them. If you notice certain changes around your eyes, it could be a direct sign of excessive fat accumulation in the liver, or fatty liver.

Yellow spots near the eyes (Xanthelasma): The most common sign of fatty liver

The appearance of small yellow bumps or spots around the eyes or above the eyelids is a very common but serious symptom. In medical terms, this is called “xanthelasma.” It is caused by the accumulation of cholesterol and fat beneath the skin. When excess fat accumulates in the liver, its metabolism becomes imbalanced. This causes the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides in the blood to rise rapidly. When the liver cannot process this fat properly, it begins to accumulate in the thin areas of the skin, especially in the corners of the eyelids. If such yellow patches appear on your eyelids, it could be a clear sign of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Yellowness in the whites of the eyes: A warning sign of impaired liver function

If the whites of the eyes, called sclera, begin to appear slightly yellow or completely yellow, it is a clear sign of liver damage. When liver cells become damaged due to excess fat, they are unable to properly filter a substance called bilirubin. Bilirubin begins to accumulate in the blood, and its effects are first visible in the whites of the eyes. This is commonly known as jaundice. As fatty liver progresses to a more severe stage or liver cirrhosis, this yellowing of the eyes becomes more intense, and should never be ignored.

Dark Circles and Puffiness Under the Eyes: Accumulation of Toxins in the Liver

Dark circles and puffiness under the eyes are often attributed to lack of sleep or stress. However, long-lasting dark circles and puffiness under the eyes indicate the accumulation of harmful toxins in the liver. When fatty liver reduces the liver’s detoxification capacity, waste products begin to accumulate in the body. This affects the fine blood vessels in the face, causing the skin around the eyes to darken and fluid buildup to cause swelling.

Dry Eyes and Changes in Vision: Vitamin A Imbalance

The liver stores fat-soluble vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and K, in our bodies. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining vision and moisture. When fatty liver occurs, the liver’s ability to store and utilize vitamin A is impaired. This results in problems such as persistent dryness, irritation, and difficulty seeing in dim light (early symptoms of night blindness).

Red Fine Lines on the Skin (Spider Angiomas)

The appearance of red or purple fine blood vessels, resembling spider webs, around the eyes or on the cheeks is also a symptom of liver disease. This is called “spider angiomas.” When the liver is unable to function properly due to fatty liver, the estrogen hormone levels in the body become imbalanced. This causes the small arteries in the skin to dilate, resulting in red spots or webs around the eyes.

Other Common Symptoms of Fatty Liver That Need to Be Recognized

In addition to changes in the eyes, patients with fatty liver may experience several other symptoms. Mild pain or heaviness in the upper right abdomen is a key symptom. Persistent fatigue and weakness, unexplained weight gain or sudden weight loss, decreased appetite, nausea, and swelling in the feet or ankles are also signs of fat accumulation in the liver. If these problems are accompanied by eye symptoms, you should get tested immediately.

Easy Steps to Keep the Liver Healthy and Protect Your Eyes

Fatty liver can be completely cured in the early stages by making appropriate lifestyle and dietary changes. First, improve your diet. Avoid junk food, excessively oily foods, sugar, and refined flour. Include antioxidant-rich foods like fresh fruits, green leafy vegetables, oats, oatmeal, garlic, turmeric, and green tea in your diet.

Ensure at least 30 to 40 minutes of physical activity or aerobic exercise regularly. This burns excess fat and improves liver health. If you are overweight, try to lose weight gradually. Eliminate alcohol and smoking completely, as these directly damage liver cells. Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins from the body.

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