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Fatty Liver Grade 2: Key Symptoms Explained

Learn about fatty liver Grade 2, its key symptoms, causes, and effective ways to reverse it through diet, exercise, and medical guidance. Early action can protect your liver health.

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Written by Dr. Siri Nallapu

Reviewed by Dr. J T Hema Pratima MBBS

Last updated on 27th Jul, 2025

Fatty liver disease is a common condition where excess fat builds up in the liver. When it progresses to Grade 2 (moderate fatty liver), it means there is a noticeable increase in fat accumulation, which can affect liver function. While this stage is still reversible with lifestyle changes, it’s important to recognise the symptoms early to prevent further damage.

In this article, we’ll explain:

  • What does fatty liver Grade 2 mean

  • Common symptoms to watch for

  • Causes and risk factors

  • How to manage and improve liver health

  • When to seek medical help

What Is Fatty Liver Grade 2?

Fatty liver disease is classified into three grades based on severity:

  • Grade 1 (Mild): Minimal fat buildup, usually no symptoms.

  • Grade 2 (Moderate): More fat accumulation, with possible mild symptoms.

  • Grade 3 (Severe): Significant fat deposits, inflammation, and higher risk of liver damage.

At Grade 2, the liver is working harder to function properly, but with the right steps, you can still reverse the condition.

Key Symptoms of Fatty Liver Grade 2

Many people with Grade 2 fatty liver may not experience noticeable symptoms, but some common signs include:

1. Fatigue and Weakness

  • Feeling unusually tired even after resting.

  • Lack of energy for daily activities.

2. Mild Abdominal Discomfort

  • Dull pain or discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen (where the liver is located).

  • A feeling of fullness or bloating.

3. Digestive Issues

  • Occasional nausea or loss of appetite.

  • Indigestion or bloating after meals.

4. Unexplained Weight Changes

  • Sudden weight gain (due to metabolic issues).

  • Or, in some cases, unexplained weight loss.

5. Elevated Liver Enzymes (Detected in Tests)

  • Routine blood tests may show higher levels of ALT and AST (liver enzymes).

  • Since symptoms can be subtle, many people discover they have fatty liver only during routine health checkups.

What Causes Fatty Liver Grade 2?

Several factors contribute to fat buildup in the liver:

1. Poor Diet

  • High intake of sugary foods, refined carbs, and fried foods.

  • Excessive consumption of processed foods and unhealthy fats.

2. Obesity or Excess Weight

Excess body fat increases fat storage in the liver.

Consult Top Hepatologist For More Health Benefits

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)

Manikonda Jagir

Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir

recommendation

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Dr. Aakash Garg, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

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Bilaspur

Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur

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Dr. Aswin S. Krishna, Hepatologist

Dr. Aswin S. Krishna

Hepatologist

10 Years • MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine,MMC), DM (Hepatology, MMC), PDF(Fellowship in Liver Transplanatation)

Chennai

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai

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Dr Amey Sonavane, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

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Mumbai

Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai

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3. Insulin Resistance & Diabetes

Poor blood sugar control leads to fat accumulation in the liver.

4. High Cholesterol & Triglycerides

High levels of fats in the blood contribute to liver fat buildup.

5. Alcohol Consumption (in Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease)

Even moderate drinking can worsen liver fat accumulation.

6. Sedentary Lifestyle

Lack of physical activity slows metabolism and fat breakdown.

How Does Fatty Liver Grade 2 Affect Health?

  • If left unmanaged, Grade 2 fatty liver can progress to more serious conditions like:

  • Liver inflammation (steatohepatitis)

  • Fibrosis (scarring of the liver)

  • Cirrhosis (permanent liver damage)

The good news? Grade 2 fatty liver is reversible with the right lifestyle changes.

How to Manage and Improve Fatty Liver Grade 2

This is how you can manage and improve fatty liver grade 2:

1. Adopt a Liver-Friendly Diet

  • Reduce sugar & refined carbs: Avoid sweets, sodas, white bread, and pastries.

  • Eat more fibre: Whole grains, vegetables, and fruits help detoxify the liver.

  • Healthy fats: Include nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish (rich in omega-3).

  • Lean proteins: Choose chicken, fish, beans, and tofu over red meat.

  • Avoid processed foods: Cut down on packaged snacks and fried foods.

2. Exercise Regularly

  • Aim for 30-45 minutes of moderate exercise (walking, cycling, swimming) at least 5 days a week.

  • Strength training helps improve metabolism and reduce liver fat.

3. Maintain a Healthy Weight

  • Losing 5-10% of body weight can significantly reduce liver fat.

  • Avoid crash diets; focus on gradual, sustainable weight loss.

4. Control Blood Sugar & Cholesterol

  • If you have diabetes or high cholesterol, follow your doctor’s advice.

  • Monitor blood sugar levels regularly.

5. Limit Alcohol

  • If you have non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD), avoid alcohol completely.

  • If alcoholic fatty liver, quitting alcohol is essential for recovery.

6. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins.

7. Get Regular Checkups

Routine liver function tests (LFT) and ultrasounds help monitor progress.

When to See a Doctor?

Consult a doctor if you experience:

  • Persistent abdominal pain

  • Severe fatigue or jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes)

  • Unexplained weight loss or swelling in the legs

Early detection and lifestyle changes can prevent fatty liver from worsening.

Take the Next Step: Book a Liver Health Checkup

If you suspect fatty liver or have risk factors, getting a liver function test or ultrasound can help assess your condition.

You can book a consultation or liver health test easily on Apollo 24|7. Early action can make all the difference!

Conclusion

Fatty liver Grade 2 is a warning sign, but it’s not too late to take control. With a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management, you can reverse the condition and protect your liver.

Consult Top Hepatologist For More Health Benefits

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)

Manikonda Jagir

Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir

recommendation

89%

(125+ Patients)

1000

150 Cashback

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr. Aakash Garg, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr. Aakash Garg

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).

Bilaspur

Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur

recommendation

98%

(125+ Patients)

800

40 Cashback

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Aswin S. Krishna, Hepatologist

Dr. Aswin S. Krishna

Hepatologist

10 Years • MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine,MMC), DM (Hepatology, MMC), PDF(Fellowship in Liver Transplanatation)

Chennai

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai

recommendation

86%

(100+ Patients)

1000

150 Cashback

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr Amey Sonavane, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr Amey Sonavane

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

11 Years • "MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine) DNB (Gastroenterology) "

Mumbai

Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai

recommendation

94%

(75+ Patients)

2300

150 Cashback

2300

No Booking Fees

Consult Top Hepatologist For More Health Benefits

Dr. Srinivasa Reddy, Hepatologist

Dr. Srinivasa Reddy

Hepatologist

12 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine), DM (Hepatology),ASGE

Hyderabad

Myra Liver & Gastro Care, Hyderabad

750

No Booking Fees

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry, General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

Dr. E Prabhakar Sastry

General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist

40 Years • MD(Internal Medicine)

Manikonda Jagir

Apollo Clinic, Manikonda, Manikonda Jagir

recommendation

89%

(125+ Patients)

1000

150 Cashback

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr. Aakash Garg, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr. Aakash Garg

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

12 Years • MBBS, DNB (Medicine), DrNB (Gastroentrology).

Bilaspur

Apollo Hospitals Seepat Road, Bilaspur

recommendation

98%

(125+ Patients)

800

40 Cashback

800

No Booking Fees

Dr. Aswin S. Krishna, Hepatologist

Dr. Aswin S. Krishna

Hepatologist

10 Years • MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine,MMC), DM (Hepatology, MMC), PDF(Fellowship in Liver Transplanatation)

Chennai

Apollo Hospitals Greams Road, Chennai

recommendation

86%

(100+ Patients)

1000

150 Cashback

1000

No Booking Fees

Dr Amey Sonavane, Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

Dr Amey Sonavane

Gastroenterology/gi Medicine Specialist

11 Years • "MBBS, DNB (Internal Medicine) DNB (Gastroenterology) "

Mumbai

Apollo Hospitals CBD Belapur, Mumbai

recommendation

94%

(75+ Patients)

2300

150 Cashback

2300

No Booking Fees

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