Whether a fatty liver is a health danger or not depends on the severity, says Ng. Mild cases are usually harmless, while severe cases can kill – “typically from a heart attack or stroke as these patients run higher risks of having coronary heart disease”.

Can you die from NAFLD?

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a common condition associated with obesity and heart disease long thought to undermine health and longevity. But a new study by Johns Hopkins researchers suggests the condition does not affect survival.

Is having a fatty liver life threatening?

At its most severe, a fatty liver may develop into cirrhosis, which causes permanent liver damage. The liver may become enlarged or shrink, liver cells are replaced by scar tissue, and the liver cannot function properly. Cirrhosis can be fatal and is typically the final stage before a transplant becomes necessary.