How fatty liver usually comes to light
Fatty liver is often found by chance, on an ultrasound for something else or after a routine blood test shows raised liver enzymes. Doctors may describe it as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or by its newer name linked to metabolic health. If alcohol is the main cause, it is described differently.
Insurers want to know how it was found, what your liver blood tests showed and whether you were referred for further checks. A scan that measures liver stiffness gives the underwriter a good idea of whether there is any scarring.
- How and when it was found
- Recent liver function test results
- Any liver stiffness scan or specialist review
- Weekly alcohol intake, now and in the past
- BMI, blood sugar and cholesterol
Scarring, alcohol and metabolic health
Most people with fatty liver have no scarring, and underwriters treat that group far more gently than those with fibrosis or cirrhosis. If you have had a stiffness scan or a specialist opinion, include the result. A reassuring result can make a real difference. If you were offered a scan but have not had it yet, the insurer may wait for the result.
Alcohol questions will be detailed. Answer them as accurately as you can, with your typical weekly units. The insurer also looks at weight, diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol, because fatty liver often travels with them and they shape the overall risk.
Outcomes you could see
Simple fatty liver with mildly raised or normal liver tests often gets standard terms or a small loading on life cover. Higher enzyme levels, ongoing alcohol concerns or measured scarring usually bring a larger loading, and an insurer may postpone while you are still being investigated. Cirrhosis or alcohol-related liver damage may be declined by some insurers and considered by others.
Critical illness cover and income protection look at the same facts. Because fatty liver often comes with metabolic risks that affect the heart, critical illness terms can be less generous than life cover.
Accuracy on alcohol protects your claim
It is tempting to round your drinking down. Your GP notes may already record your alcohol intake from past appointments, and the insurer will compare. A big gap can lead to questions now or a reduced claim later.
If you have cut down or stopped drinking, say so and give the date. Positive changes count, and the underwriter needs to know about them to give you credit. The same applies to weight loss, better blood sugar control or a repeat liver test that came back closer to normal. Underwriters can only weigh what you tell them.
How Hi Tomorrow helps with fatty liver
Insurers vary in how they read liver tests and stiffness scans. We know which insurers on our panel are more comfortable with fatty liver that has no scarring, and we use that to choose where to apply.
We go through your results with you beforehand so nothing surprises the underwriter. If your health is improving, we can also tell you when a fresh application might be worth trying. That can be useful if you took cover with a loading and have since brought your liver tests and weight down.