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Fatty liver disease is one of the fastest-growing health concerns yet most people don’t realize they have it until the condition becomes serious. Because early fatty liver often develops with silent or mild symptoms, it can go unnoticed for years. If you live in San Antonio or nearby areas, understanding the early warning signs can help you protect your long-term liver health before the condition progresses.

As a trusted provider of liver and metabolic care, Dr. Juan S. Pico offers comprehensive evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment for fatty liver disease San Antonio, TX. Below are five signs that may indicate your liver is storing excess fat — even if you feel otherwise healthy.  

1. Unexplained Fatigue That Doesn’t Improve

One of the earliest and most overlooked signs of fatty liver disease is persistent fatigue. Most patients describe it as:

• Low energy throughout the day
• A “heavy” tiredness despite sleeping
• Feeling mentally foggy
• Struggling with motivation

The liver plays a significant role in converting nutrients into usable energy. When fat builds up, the liver becomes inflamed, which impairs its ability to perform these functions. This results in chronic fatigue that cannot be explained by lifestyle, work, or sleep habits.If your energy levels have suddenly dropped or you feel tired without reason, it may be time to schedule a liver evaluation. 

2. Discomfort or Fullness in the Upper Right Abdomen

Many people with early fatty liver disease report a mild, dull ache on the right side of the abdomen, just below the ribs. This happens because the liver becomes enlarged as fat accumulates.

You may experience:

• A feeling of fullness after eating small meals
• Occasional discomfort when sitting or bending
• A “pressure-like” sensation under the rib cage

It may not feel like sharp pain, which is why people often ignore it. But any persistent abdominal discomfort — especially on the right side — should be checked to rule out liver-related changes. 

3. Unexplained Weight Gain or Trouble Losing Weight

The liver plays a significant role in metabolism. When it is overloaded with fat, the body becomes less efficient at breaking down sugars and fats. This can lead to:

• Weight gain around the midsection
• Difficulty losing weight even with diet and exercise
• Increased cravings for carbs or sugar
• Early insulin resistance

Even if you’re following a healthy lifestyle, fatty liver can slow down your metabolism. Over time, it can increase the risk of diabetes, high cholesterol, and cardiovascular issues. Getting evaluated early helps prevent these long-term complications. 

4. Elevated Liver Enzymes in Routine Blood Tests

One of the most common ways fatty liver disease is discovered is through routine blood work. Elevated liver enzymes — particularly ALT and AST — can signal inflammation or liver stress.

However, many patients ignore abnormal results if they feel fine physically.

If your recent medical tests showed elevated liver enzymes or if your doctor noted unusual metabolic changes, it may be a sign of early fatty liver disease. A comprehensive liver evaluation, including imaging and biomarkers, helps confirm the diagnosis and prevent progression. 

5. Skin Changes, Dark Patches, or Itching

Though often overlooked, the skin can provide early clues about liver health. Fatty liver disease may cause:

• Dark patches around the neck or underarms (acanthosis nigricans)
• Red palms
• Dry or itchy skin
• Small red “spider veins” under the skin

These signs often appear due to hormonal changes, inflammation, and insulin resistance linked with liver dysfunction. If you notice new skin changes along with fatigue or weight changes, it’s smart to get a liver health check. 

Why Early Diagnosis Matters

Fatty liver disease is reversible in many cases — especially when caught early. Without treatment, it can progress to:

• Liver fibrosis
• Cirrhosis
• Liver failure
• Increased risk of heart disease
• Type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome

Seeking expert care helps slow, stop, or even reverse liver damage.  

How Dr. Juan S. Pico Helps Patients in San Antonio

For individuals concerned about fatty liver disease in San Antonio, TX, Dr. Juan S. Pico provides:

• Detailed liver evaluations
• Advanced imaging and laboratory testing
• Personalized lifestyle and nutrition plans
• Ongoing metabolic monitoring
• Management of related conditions like diabetes, obesity, or high cholesterol

His patient-centered approach ensures early detection and long-term liver care tailored to your health goals. 

When to See a Specialist

You should consider scheduling a liver evaluation if you have:

• Persistent fatigue
• Weight gain or insulin resistance
• Right-sided abdominal discomfort
• A history of high cholesterol or diabetes
• A family history of liver disease
• Elevated liver enzymes

Early intervention is key to preventing long-term complications. 

Final Thoughts

Fatty liver disease often develops quietly, but understanding the early warning signs can help you take control of your health. If you suspect symptoms or want a preventive evaluation, Dr. Juan S. Pico in San Antonio is here to help you achieve better liver and metabolic health.

 FAQs:-

1. What is the earliest sign of fatty liver disease?

The earliest sign is usually persistent fatigue. Many patients feel tired even after resting, which often leads to early diagnosis during liver evaluations. 

2. Can fatty liver disease be reversed?

Yes. With proper care, lifestyle changes, and professional guidance from experts like Dr.

Juan S. Pico, early fatty liver disease in San Antonio, TX, can often be reversed. 

3. Does fatty liver disease cause pain?

It may cause a dull ache or fullness on the right side of the abdomen. Not everyone experiences pain, which is why many people don’t realize they have the condition. 

4. How is fatty liver disease diagnosed?

Diagnosis may include blood tests, an ultrasound, liver function tests, and metabolic evaluation. A specialist can recommend the best approach based on your symptoms and risk factors. 

5. When should I see Dr. Juan S. Pico?

If you have unexplained fatigue, weight changes, elevated liver enzymes, or abdominal discomfort, scheduling a consultation can help determine whether fatty liver is the cause.