When is abdominal ultrasound recommended for fatty liver disease?

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the liver and nearby organs. It may show features consistent with fat in the liver and can help assess the gallbladder and bile ducts at the same appointment. The result does not by itself explain why fat is present or fully measure liver inflammation and scarring. A clinician may combine it with your history, examination, blood tests, and sometimes another form of assessment.

Ask the imaging service whether you need to avoid food or drink beforehand, because preparation instructions vary. Wear comfortable clothing and bring a list of medicines and relevant test results. During the scan, gel is placed on the upper abdomen and a probe is moved across the skin. Tell the clinician if pressure is uncomfortable. Discuss alcohol use, medicines, weight changes, diabetes, and cholesterol because these details can affect the assessment and follow-up plan.

Contact a clinician if you develop yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, pale stools, increasing abdominal swelling, vomiting, confusion, or severe right-sided abdominal pain. These symptoms can have several causes and may need assessment rather than waiting for a routine scan.

Ask what prompted the scan, whether you need fasting, which results will be available, and whether blood tests or further liver assessment are needed after the ultrasound.