A dull ache on one side of your pelvis. Pressure that keeps returning. Bloating that feels different from usual. Or sudden pelvic pain that catches you off guard.

There are many possible reasons for these symptoms, and an ovarian cyst is one of them.

Ovarian cysts are common. Many cause no symptoms and disappear naturally without treatment. Others can become painful, grow larger, rupture or occasionally contribute to twisting of the ovary.

Symptoms alone cannot tell you whether a cyst is present.

When an ovarian cyst is suspected, a pelvic ultrasound is one of the main imaging tests used to examine the ovaries and surrounding pelvic structures. The NHS notes that ultrasound is commonly used when an ovarian cyst is suspected. (nhs.uk)

This guide looks specifically at ovarian cyst pain, when symptoms may need investigation, what happens if a cyst ruptures, why ovarian torsion requires urgent attention and what a pelvic or transvaginal ultrasound can show.

If your symptoms are persistent but not an emergency, you can explore VitalScan’s dedicated pelvic imaging service here:

Explore Pelvic Ultrasound at VitalScan

An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on or within an ovary.

The ovaries sit on either side of the uterus and are part of the reproductive system.

Ovarian cysts are very common, particularly before menopause. Many develop naturally and resolve without treatment within a few months. (nhs.uk)

There are different types of ovarian cyst, and their significance depends on factors such as their size, appearance, whether they are causing symptoms and whether they persist.

Finding a cyst does not automatically mean something serious is wrong.

The purpose of imaging is to understand what is there, what it looks like and whether further monitoring or assessment may be needed.

Ovarian cyst pain can feel different from person to person.

Some people describe a dull or heavy sensation in the pelvis. Others experience pressure, intermittent discomfort or a sharper pain on one side.

The NHS lists pelvic pain ranging from a dull, heavy sensation to sudden, severe and sharp pain among possible ovarian cyst symptoms. (nhs.uk)

Possible symptoms include:

• Dull pelvic aching
• Pressure or heaviness in the lower abdomen
• Pain on one side of the pelvis
• Sudden sharp pelvic pain
• Pain during sex
• Abdominal bloating or swelling
• Feeling full sooner than expected
• Needing to urinate more frequently
• Difficulty emptying the bowel

An ovarian cyst is only one possible explanation.

Pelvic pain can come from the ovaries, uterus, bowel, bladder, pelvic muscles and several other structures. This is why persistent symptoms usually need proper assessment rather than self-diagnosis.

Ovarian cyst pain is commonly felt in the lower abdomen or pelvis.

Because there is an ovary on each side of the uterus, discomfort may sometimes feel stronger on the left or right.

However, the location of pain cannot tell you whether a cyst is present or which ovary is affected.

A pelvis ultrasound can provide structural images of both ovaries and the surrounding pelvic organs.

Yes.

A cyst affecting one ovary may cause discomfort that feels more noticeable on that side.

The pain might be:

• Dull and persistent
• Intermittent
• A feeling of pressure
• Sharp during certain movements
• Sudden and severe if a complication occurs

Persistent one-sided pelvic pain deserves assessment, particularly when it is new, worsening or accompanied by other symptoms.

It can.

Larger or symptomatic ovarian cysts may cause abdominal bloating, swelling or a feeling of pelvic pressure.

Some people also report feeling unusually full after eating only a small amount. These are recognised possible symptoms of ovarian cysts, but they are not specific to cysts and can occur with many other conditions. (nhs.uk)

Persistent or unexplained bloating should therefore be investigated rather than automatically attributed to an ovarian cyst.

Pelvic conditions can sometimes cause pain that is difficult to localise precisely, and discomfort may be felt towards the lower back.

However, lower back pain is extremely common and has many musculoskeletal and non-gynaecological causes.

Back pain alone is not enough to suggest an ovarian cyst. If it occurs alongside persistent pelvic pain, pressure or other pelvic symptoms, further assessment may be appropriate.

The cartilaginous disc within the TMJ is held in position by ligaments and muscle tone. When the surrounding muscles become tight or the ligaments are stretched, the disc can slip forward out of its normal position between the bones of the joint. This is called internal derangement or disc displacement. It is one of the most clinically significant causes of both jaw clicking a

Many small ovarian cysts never cause symptoms.

Pain becomes more likely when a cyst:

• Becomes larger
• Places pressure on nearby structures
• Bleeds
• Ruptures
• Has more complex features
• Contributes to twisting of the ovary

The NHS notes that ovarian cysts are more likely to cause symptoms if they become very large, rupture or twist and affect the blood supply to the ovary. (nhs.uk)

This is also why the characteristics of a cyst on ultrasound matter, rather than simply whether a cyst exists.

An ovarian cyst can sometimes split or rupture.

Some ruptured cysts cause mild or short-lived symptoms. Others can cause significant pain and, in some circumstances, internal bleeding.

What Does a Ruptured Ovarian Cyst Feel Like?

A ruptured ovarian cyst may cause:

• Sudden pelvic pain
• Sharp lower abdominal pain
• Pain concentrated on one side
• Increasing abdominal discomfort
• Nausea
• Feeling faint or dizzy in more serious cases

Not every episode of sudden pelvic pain is caused by a ruptured cyst.

Other potentially urgent conditions can produce similar symptoms, including ovarian torsion and ectopic pregnancy.

Sudden or severe pelvic pain therefore needs appropriate medical assessment rather than waiting for a routine scan.

Ovarian torsion occurs when the ovary twists around the tissues supporting it.

This can interfere with the blood supply to the ovary and requires urgent medical assessment.

An ovarian mass or cyst can sometimes increase the risk of torsion.

Possible symptoms can include:

• Sudden severe pelvic or lower abdominal pain
• Pain on one side
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Rapidly worsening pain

Recent NHS patient guidance highlights sudden severe pelvic pain, pain with vomiting or fever, faintness, dizziness and rapidly worsening abdominal swelling as symptoms requiring urgent attention because they may indicate torsion, cyst rupture or internal bleeding. (MFT)

Is Ovarian Torsion an Emergency?

Yes. Suspected ovarian torsion requires urgent assessment.

If you develop sudden severe pelvic pain, especially with nausea or vomiting, seek urgent medical help rather than arranging a routine private ultrasound appointment.

The investigation starts with the symptoms and wider clinical picture.

Depending on your circumstances, assessment may include:

• Medical and symptom history
• Clinical examination
• Pelvic ultrasound
• Blood tests in particular circumstances
• Repeat ultrasound
• Specialist assessment
• Further imaging where appropriate

The NHS states that someone suspected of having an ovarian cyst will commonly be referred for an ultrasound, often performed using a probe placed inside the vagina. (nhs.uk)

Yes.

Pelvic ultrasound is one of the main imaging methods used to identify ovarian cysts.

VitalScan’s Pelvic Ultrasound service assesses the uterus, ovaries and surrounding pelvic structures. The scan can identify ovarian cysts or masses and provide information about ovarian size and morphology.

Ultrasound does not use ionising radiation.

Explore VitalScan’s Pelvic Ultrasound Scan

What Can an Ultrasound Tell You About an Ovarian Cyst?

Finding a cyst is only part of the assessment.

An ovarian cyst ultrasound may provide information about:

• Whether a cyst is present
• Which ovary it affects
• Its size
• Its location
• Its appearance
• Whether it appears simple or more complex
• Whether there are cysts affecting both ovaries
• Whether there is free fluid within the pelvis
• Other structural findings involving the uterus or ovaries

VitalScan’s pelvic scan specifically includes ovarian assessment and identification of ovarian cysts or masses. The service also evaluates free fluid within the pelvis, which can be relevant in several clinical contexts including ruptured cysts. 

The ultrasound findings need to be interpreted alongside your symptoms and medical history.

What Is the Difference Between a Simple and Complex Ovarian Cyst?

Ultrasound can describe features of an ovarian cyst rather than simply reporting that one exists.

A simple cyst generally has a straightforward fluid-filled appearance.

A cyst with more complicated internal features may be described differently and can require further assessment depending on its appearance, size, symptoms, age and menopausal status.

This does not mean that a complex-looking cyst is automatically cancerous.

Ultrasound characteristics are used as part of a wider clinical assessment. NICE’s ovarian cancer guidance includes features such as multilocularity, solid areas, bilateral lesions and other findings when assessing ovarian masses. (Nice)

There are two common approaches to pelvic ultrasound.

Transabdominal Pelvic Ultrasound

A transabdominal scan is performed across the lower abdomen.

Gel is placed on the skin and an ultrasound probe is moved over the area.

You may be asked to attend with a comfortably full bladder because this can improve the view of the pelvic organs.

Transvaginal Ultrasound

A transvaginal ultrasound is an internal scan using a slim, covered ultrasound probe.

Because the probe is positioned closer to the pelvic organs, it can provide detailed images of the ovaries, uterus and endometrium.

VitalScan offers both a Uterus and Ovaries Ultrasound and a Transvaginal Ultrasound, with the appropriate approach depending on what needs to be assessed.

The NHS also notes that transvaginal ultrasound is commonly used when investigating a suspected ovarian cyst. (nhs.uk)

If an internal scan is not suitable or you do not wish to have one, discuss the available alternatives before your appointment.

A pelvic ultrasound can provide detailed images of your ovaries and surrounding pelvic structures and may help identify a cyst or other structural cause for your symptoms.

Check our latest offer and explore Pelvic Ultrasound

Not every ovarian cyst requires treatment.

Many cysts resolve naturally, particularly functional cysts before menopause.

Sometimes a repeat scan is recommended to check whether a cyst has:

• Disappeared
• Reduced in size
• Remained unchanged
• Increased in size
• Changed in appearance

The NHS states that when a cyst is identified, repeat ultrasound may be used to monitor it and confirm whether it has resolved. (nhs.uk)

The timing and need for follow-up should be determined by the healthcare professional managing your care rather than by repeatedly booking scans without clinical guidance.

An ultrasound finding does not automatically mean that treatment is needed.

The next step depends on factors such as:

• Your symptoms
• The cyst’s size
• Its ultrasound appearance
• Whether it persists
• Your age
• Whether you have been through menopause
• Other relevant clinical findings

Many cysts can simply be monitored.

Others may need gynaecological review, further imaging or treatment.

Your scan report can provide useful structural information for your GP or gynaecologist to consider when deciding what happens next.

MRI is a diagnostic support tool, not a standalone decision-maker for surgery. Where surgical intervention is being considered, a maxillofacial surgeon may also use arthroscopy, which allows direct visualisation inside the joint. MRI findings are best interpreted alongside clinical assessment by a clinician with experience in TMJ disorders.

Ultrasound is generally the first imaging investigation used for suspected ovarian cysts.

MRI may be considered in selected circumstances when an ovarian or adnexal mass needs more detailed characterisation.

Current NICE material notes that MRI can be offered for further characterisation when an adnexal mass remains indeterminate on ultrasound. (Nice)

VitalScan’s Gynaecological MRI provides detailed imaging of the ovaries, uterus, cervix and surrounding pelvic structures.

Explore Gynaecological MRI at VitalScan

MRI is not automatically required because an ovarian cyst has been found.

The decision should depend on the ultrasound findings and appropriate clinical advice.

No.

This is an important distinction.

An ovarian cyst is an individual fluid-filled structure on or within an ovary.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition with a different diagnostic pathway. The follicles that can appear in polycystic ovarian morphology are not the same as a typical ovarian cyst.

This article focuses specifically on ovarian cyst pain, cyst complications and imaging rather than the hormonal symptoms and diagnostic criteria associated with PCOS.

Endometriosis can sometimes cause an ovarian cyst called an endometrioma.

These are cysts associated with endometriosis and represent a different clinical problem from many common functional ovarian cysts.

NICE recommends transvaginal ultrasound when endometriosis is suspected because it can help identify ovarian endometriomas, deep endometriosis and other possible causes of symptoms. (Nice)

However, a normal ultrasound does not rule out all forms of endometriosis.

VitalScan also notes that pelvic ultrasound can identify some features associated with endometriosis, while some forms may require further investigation.

Most ovarian cysts are benign.

The NHS notes that the vast majority of ovarian cysts are non-cancerous, although the likelihood of malignancy becomes more relevant after menopause. (nhs.uk)

An ultrasound cannot simply label every ovarian mass benign or malignant from one isolated feature.

Assessment may depend on:

• Ultrasound appearance
• Age
• Menopausal status
• Symptoms
• Blood-test results where appropriate
• Specialist review

Current NICE guidance recommends CA125 testing and, depending on age and the result, abdominal and pelvic ultrasound for people aged 40 or over with persistent symptoms that could suggest ovarian cancer. If ultrasound findings suggest ovarian cancer, urgent specialist referral is recommended. (Nice)

Having an ovarian cyst does not mean that you have ovarian cancer.

Persistent or concerning symptoms should simply be assessed through the appropriate clinical pathway.

Most ovarian cysts are not emergencies.

However, some symptoms require urgent assessment.

Seek urgent medical help if you experience:

• Sudden severe pelvic or lower abdominal pain
• Severe pain with nausea or vomiting
• Feeling faint or dizzy
• Rapidly worsening pain
• Significant abdominal swelling
• Fever alongside severe pelvic pain
• Heavy bleeding with severe pain

These symptoms can occur with complications such as ovarian torsion, cyst rupture or internal bleeding. (nhs.uk)

A routine private ultrasound should not delay emergency assessment.

If you are unsure whether your symptoms require urgent care, contact NHS 111.

Read NHS guidance on ovarian cysts

For a transabdominal pelvic ultrasound, gel is applied to the lower abdomen and an ultrasound probe is moved gently across the skin.

For a transvaginal ultrasound, a slim covered probe is gently inserted into the vagina to obtain more detailed images of the ovaries and uterus.

VitalScan’s pelvic ultrasound assesses structures including:

• The ovaries
• Uterus
• Endometrial lining
• Pelvic fluid
• Bladder where clinically relevant

A written report is produced following the examination and can be shared with your GP, gynaecologist or another healthcare professional. 

Do You Need a Full Bladder for a Pelvic Ultrasound?

A comfortably full bladder may be required for a transabdominal pelvic ultrasound because it can improve the view of the pelvic structures.

Preparation can differ depending on whether you are having a transabdominal or transvaginal examination.

Follow the instructions supplied for your appointment.

For more detailed preparation advice:

Read VitalScan’s guide to preparing for an ultrasound

If you have persistent, non-emergency pelvic pain or have been advised to investigate a suspected ovarian cyst, VitalScan offers private pelvic ultrasound in Milton Keynes.

The dedicated Pelvic Ultrasound service includes assessment of the uterus and ovaries and can identify ovarian cysts, masses and other structural findings. VitalScan also offers transvaginal ultrasound where a more detailed internal assessment is appropriate. 

A GP referral is not required for VitalScan’s current pelvic ultrasound pathway, although the clinic advises contacting the team if you are unsure which scan is appropriate. 

Your report can then be shared with your GP, gynaecologist or another healthcare professional if further assessment is needed.

Want to Understand What May Be Causing Your Pelvic Pain?

If you are experiencing persistent pelvic pain, pressure or symptoms that could be related to an ovarian cyst, a pelvic ultrasound may provide useful structural information about your ovaries and surrounding pelvic organs.

Check our latest offer and explore Pelvic Ultrasound

If your ultrasound findings require more detailed imaging, your healthcare professional may advise whether further assessment such as a Gynaecological MRI is appropriate.

Pelvic pain and pressure can have many possible causes.

An ovarian cyst is one possibility, but symptoms alone cannot confirm whether a cyst is present or explain its characteristics.

A pelvic ultrasound can provide detailed images of the ovaries, uterus and surrounding pelvic structures. If a cyst is identified, the scan can provide information about its size, location and appearance to support appropriate next steps.

VitalScan offers both Uterus & Ovaries Ultrasound and Transvaginal Ultrasound at its Milton Keynes clinic. The report can be shared with your GP, gynaecologist or another healthcare professional involved in your care. 

Concerned About an Ovarian Cyst or Persistent Pelvic Pain?

Check our latest offer and explore Pelvic Ultrasound

You can also read How to Prepare for an Ultrasound or explore Gynaecological MRI if further imaging has been recommended.

This article provides general information and does not replace personalised medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Sudden severe pelvic pain, particularly with nausea, vomiting, dizziness or fainting, requires urgent medical assessment.

Fatty liver can be easy to miss.

Many people have no obvious symptoms and only discover changes in their liver after a blood test or scan carried out for another reason. Others may notice persistent tiredness or discomfort underneath the ribs on the right-hand side.

Fatty liver means that excess fat has accumulated within the liver. When liver fat occurs alongside metabolic risk factors, healthcare professionals may use the term metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). You may also still see the older term non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) used in some NHS and clinical information.

A liver ultrasound can assess the size, shape and appearance of the liver and may identify changes consistent with fatty liver. However, a standard ultrasound cannot tell you how well the liver is functioning and does not reliably measure liver fibrosis or scarring.

This guide explains the possible symptoms and causes of fatty liver, what a liver ultrasound can show, how liver blood tests differ and when further assessment may be needed.

VitalScan offers a dedicated Liver Ultrasound service in Milton Keynes for people who need structural imaging of the liver.

Fatty liver occurs when excess fat accumulates within liver cells.

A small amount of liver fat may not cause symptoms or significant problems. However, persistent fat accumulation can sometimes be associated with inflammation and, in a smaller proportion of people, progressive liver damage.

The term steatotic liver disease (SLD) is now used as a broad description for conditions involving excess liver fat.

MASLD refers more specifically to steatotic liver disease associated with metabolic risk factors such as diabetes, excess weight, high blood pressure or abnormal cholesterol levels.

Fat accumulation can also occur for other reasons, including alcohol use, certain medicines and some medical conditions. This is why finding fat in the liver does not always explain its underlying cause.

Fatty liver can exist at different stages.

These may include:

• Steatosis: excess fat is present in the liver without significant inflammation.
• MASH: metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis, where liver fat is accompanied by inflammation and liver-cell injury.
• Fibrosis: repeated or ongoing injury leads to the development of scar tissue.
• Cirrhosis: advanced scarring changes the normal structure of the liver.

Not everyone with fatty liver progresses through these stages.

For many people, fatty liver remains at an early stage. The purpose of assessment is therefore not simply to identify liver fat, but to consider whether there are signs or risk factors that suggest further investigation may be needed.

One of the difficulties with fatty liver disease is that it often causes no obvious symptoms.

Many people only become aware of it after:

• Routine blood tests
• An abdominal ultrasound
• Imaging performed for another reason
• A general health assessment

When symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Persistent tiredness
• Feeling generally unwell
• Discomfort in the upper-right abdomen
• A dull ache beneath the right-hand ribs

These symptoms are not specific to fatty liver.

Tiredness and upper abdominal discomfort can occur for many reasons, which means symptoms alone cannot confirm whether fat has accumulated in the liver.

When discomfort is associated with fatty liver, it is usually described in the upper-right side of the abdomen, underneath the ribs where the liver is located.

It may feel more like a dull ache, pressure or discomfort than severe pain.

However, pain in this area can also arise from the gallbladder, stomach, bowel, muscles and other abdominal structures.

If you have severe, sudden or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, it should not automatically be assumed to be caused by fatty liver.

Yes.

Fatty liver is commonly discovered in people who otherwise feel well.

Someone may have liver fat without experiencing pain, tiredness or any other noticeable symptoms.

This is one reason why fatty liver is sometimes identified unexpectedly during an ultrasound or after abnormal liver-related blood results.

Feeling well does not necessarily mean that liver fat is absent, just as having symptoms does not automatically mean fatty liver is the cause.

Metabolic health is one of the main factors associated with fatty liver.

The likelihood may be higher in people with:

• Excess weight, particularly around the waist
• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol or triglycerides
• Metabolic syndrome
• Low levels of physical activity
• Increasing age

However, body weight alone does not determine whether someone can develop fatty liver.

Yes.

Although excess weight increases the likelihood of metabolic fatty liver disease, people who are not overweight can still develop liver fat.

Other contributing factors may include:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels
• Genetics
• Certain medicines
• Other metabolic conditions
• Some underlying medical conditions

Alcohol can also contribute to liver fat and liver injury.

Because several different factors can affect the liver, the cause should be considered alongside medical history, medicines, alcohol intake and other health information rather than based on weight alone.

There is no single test that answers every question about liver health.

Assessment may involve a combination of:

• Medical history
• Alcohol history
• Medication review
• Liver blood tests
• Liver ultrasound
• Blood pressure and metabolic assessment
• Diabetes or blood glucose testing
• Cholesterol testing
• Fibrosis assessment
• Further imaging when clinically appropriate

Blood tests and imaging provide different types of information.

A blood test cannot directly show liver fat, while an ultrasound cannot directly measure how effectively the liver is performing all of its functions.

A liver ultrasound scan can identify changes in the appearance of the liver that may be consistent with fatty infiltration.

Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal structures and does not use ionising radiation.

During a liver ultrasound, the sonographer can assess features such as:

• Liver size
• Liver shape and contour
• Liver texture
• Changes consistent with fatty liver
• Visible cysts or focal abnormalities
• Bile ducts
• Relevant blood vessels
• Nearby upper-abdominal structures where appropriate

VitalScan’s Liver Ultrasound provides structural imaging of the liver and surrounding areas where clinically relevant.

Not completely.

Conventional ultrasound can identify changes associated with fatty liver, particularly when fat accumulation is more established.

However, mild or early steatosis may not always be visible on a standard ultrasound.

A normal ultrasound therefore does not necessarily exclude every degree of liver fat or every type of liver disease.

Results should be considered alongside symptoms, blood-test results, medical history and metabolic risk factors.

Fat changes the way liver tissue reflects ultrasound waves.

A sonographer or reporting clinician may describe the liver as having increased echogenicity, which means it appears brighter than expected on ultrasound.

The report may use terms such as:

• Fatty change
• Fatty infiltration
• Hepatic steatosis
• Increased liver echogenicity

These descriptions should always be interpreted as part of the wider clinical picture.

An ultrasound finding of fatty liver does not automatically mean that significant liver damage or cirrhosis is present.

A standard liver ultrasound may suggest the presence of fatty liver, but it has limitations when determining severity.

Some ultrasound reports may describe appearances as mild, moderate or severe. However, conventional ultrasound does not precisely quantify the amount of fat in the liver and is not designed to accurately stage fibrosis.

This distinction matters because liver fat and liver scarring are not the same thing.

Someone can have fatty liver without advanced fibrosis, while fibrosis risk may require separate assessment.

A standard ultrasound may identify structural changes associated with more advanced liver disease, but it does not reliably measure the extent of fibrosis.

If liver scarring needs to be assessed, further investigations may include:

• Blood-based fibrosis scores
• Enhanced Liver Fibrosis testing
• Transient elastography or FibroScan
• Other specialist imaging
• Hepatology assessment

NICE recommends assessing fibrosis risk in people with fatty liver where appropriate rather than relying on routine liver blood tests alone.

If a liver ultrasound shows fatty change, your GP or another healthcare professional may therefore consider whether additional fibrosis assessment is needed.

A liver ultrasound and a liver blood test answer different questions.

What Does a Liver Ultrasound Check?

A liver ultrasound mainly looks at structure.

It may assess:

• Liver size
• Liver shape
• Liver texture
• Fatty liver changes
• Cysts
• Some focal abnormalities
• Bile ducts
• Relevant blood vessels
• Nearby upper-abdominal structures

It does not directly measure how well the liver is carrying out all of its normal functions.

What Do Liver Blood Tests Check?

Liver-related blood tests look at biochemical markers associated with liver-cell injury, bile flow and aspects of liver function.

Depending on the test panel, this may include markers such as liver enzymes, bilirubin, albumin and other liver-related measurements.

VitalScan offers a dedicated Liver Health Blood Test for people who have been advised to assess liver-related blood markers.

Blood tests cannot directly show fat within the liver.

This is why an ultrasound and a blood test should not be treated as interchangeable investigations.

Yes.

Normal routine liver blood tests do not necessarily rule out fatty liver.

Some people with hepatic steatosis have liver-related blood results within the normal range.

NICE advises against using routine liver blood tests alone to exclude fatty liver or assess whether advanced fibrosis is present.

A person may therefore have:

Normal liver blood tests + fatty liver on imaging

or

Abnormal liver blood tests + no clear fatty change on ultrasound

The results need to be interpreted together with medical history and other clinical information.

Not necessarily.

Simple steatosis means that excess fat has accumulated within liver cells.

For many people, this does not automatically mean that advanced liver damage is present.

However, in some people, liver fat is associated with inflammation. Over time, ongoing inflammation and injury can contribute to fibrosis and eventually more advanced liver disease.

This is why assessment focuses on both the presence of liver fat and the person’s wider risk of liver scarring.

An ultrasound finding of fatty liver is usually one part of the assessment rather than the final answer.

Your report may need to be considered alongside:

• Liver blood-test results
• Alcohol intake
• Medicines
• Weight and waist measurement
• Blood pressure
• Cholesterol or triglycerides
• Blood glucose or diabetes status
• Other metabolic risk factors
• Family and medical history

A healthcare professional can then decide whether further testing is appropriate.

For some people, management may focus on metabolic health and lifestyle factors.

Others may need additional testing for fibrosis or investigation of another possible cause of abnormal liver findings.

An ultrasound itself does not determine treatment.

An ultrasound finding of fatty liver is usually one part of the assessment rather than the final answer.

Your report may need to be considered alongside:

• Liver blood-test results
• Alcohol intake
• Medicines
• Weight and waist measurement
• Blood pressure
• Cholesterol or triglycerides
• Blood glucose or diabetes status
• Other metabolic risk factors
• Family and medical history

A healthcare professional can then decide whether further testing is appropriate.

For some people, management may focus on metabolic health and lifestyle factors.

Others may need additional testing for fibrosis or investigation of another possible cause of abnormal liver findings.

An ultrasound itself does not determine treatment.

Fatty liver can often improve, particularly at an earlier stage.

Management usually focuses on the factors contributing to fat accumulation and wider metabolic health.

Depending on the individual, this may involve:

• Weight management where appropriate
• Regular physical activity
• A balanced diet
• Managing diabetes
• Managing cholesterol
• Managing blood pressure
• Reviewing alcohol intake
• Reviewing medicines where clinically appropriate

Changes should be appropriate for your individual health, particularly if you have existing medical conditions or take regular medicines.

If more advanced liver disease is suspected, management may require specialist assessment.

A liver ultrasound can provide information about more than fatty liver alone.

Depending on the examination and findings, it may assess:

• Liver size and contour
• Liver texture
• Simple liver cysts
• Some focal liver abnormalities
• Dilated bile ducts
• Relevant blood vessels
• Gallbladder abnormalities

VitalScan’s liver ultrasound can also include assessment of the gallbladder where clinically appropriate.

This can be particularly useful because discomfort beneath the right ribs is not always caused by the liver.

Gallstones and other gallbladder problems can produce symptoms in a similar area.

Where gallbladder symptoms are the main concern, a targeted gallbladder ultrasound may be more appropriate.

Fatty liver itself often causes no symptoms and does not usually require emergency treatment simply because it has been identified on a scan.

However, some symptoms should not wait for a routine private ultrasound.

Seek emergency medical help

Call 999 or go to A&E if you:

• Vomit blood
• Develop black, tar-like stools and feel faint or very unwell
• Become newly confused or unusually difficult to wake
• Develop severe symptoms that appear life-threatening

Seek urgent medical advice

Contact your GP urgently or NHS 111 if you develop:

• New yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes
• Significant or rapidly increasing abdominal swelling
• Severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain
• Persistent vomiting
• A marked deterioration in how you feel

A routine private scan should never delay urgent medical assessment.

A liver ultrasound is performed externally across the upper abdomen.

You will usually lie on an examination couch while ultrasound gel is applied to your skin.

The sonographer then moves a handheld ultrasound probe across the upper abdomen to create images of the liver.

During the examination, you may be asked to:

• Change position
• Take a deep breath
• Hold your breath briefly

Ultrasound does not use ionising radiation.

After the scan, the images are reviewed and a written report is provided according to the clinic’s reporting pathway.

Preparation depends on the exact ultrasound examination being performed.

For some upper-abdominal scans, you may be asked not to eat for a period beforehand. This can help improve imaging of structures including the gallbladder and upper abdomen.

Always follow the preparation instructions provided with your appointment rather than fasting for longer than advised.

You can also read our guide on how to prepare for an ultrasound.

No.

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images.

Unlike X-rays and CT scans, a standard ultrasound examination does not expose you to ionising radiation.

If you have been advised to investigate your liver, have abnormal results that need structural imaging or need further assessment of a possible fatty liver finding, VitalScan offers private Liver Ultrasound in Milton Keynes.

The scan can assess:

• Liver size and shape
• Liver texture
• Changes consistent with fatty liver
• Visible cysts and other structural abnormalities
• Bile ducts
• Relevant vessels
• Nearby upper-abdominal structures where appropriate

Your liver ultrasound report can then be shared with your GP, gastroenterologist or another healthcare professional if further interpretation or follow-up is required.

Explore VitalScan Liver Ultrasound

A liver ultrasound may be useful when structural imaging of the liver is required.

It may help identify changes consistent with fatty liver, but it does not measure liver function and cannot reliably assess the full extent of fibrosis on its own.

If your main question relates to liver enzymes or other blood markers, a Liver Health Blood Test provides different information.

Some people may need both imaging and blood testing.

If you are unsure which investigation is appropriate, speak to a healthcare professional or contact the VitalScan team before booking.

Check our latest offer and explore our Liver Ultrasound service.

Explore Liver Ultrasound.

Fatty liver is common and often develops without obvious symptoms.

A liver ultrasound can provide useful information about the structure and appearance of the liver and may identify changes consistent with fatty liver.

Liver blood tests provide different information and may help assess biochemical markers related to liver health.

Neither investigation answers every question on its own.

If fatty liver is identified, the result should be considered alongside your medical history, metabolic health and relevant blood tests. Further assessment may sometimes be needed to understand the risk of fibrosis or investigate another underlying cause.

VitalScan offers dedicated Liver Ultrasound and Liver Health Blood Test services in Milton Keynes.

Concerned About Fatty Liver or Your Liver Health?

Check our latest offer and explore Liver Ultrasound

Liver Ultrasound at VitalScan

If blood testing has also been recommended:

Liver Health Blood Test

Before attending your scan:

How to Prepare for an Ultrasound

This article provides general information and does not replace personalised medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. A routine private scan should not delay urgent or emergency medical assessment.