The 5 Warning Signs of the ‘Silent Killer’ According to a Weight Loss Doctor

A leading doctor has sounded the alarm on five little-known warning signs of fatty liver disease, a condition that can silently wreak havoc on your health. Fatty liver disease results from excess fat buildup in the liver and often goes undetected until it inflicts serious damage.

Without early detection and treatment, the condition can worsen and cause irreversible liver damage. Millions of people are affected by this stealthy disease worldwide. Professor Franklin Joseph, a leading weight loss specialist at Dr Frank’s Weight Loss Clinic, highlights the subtle symptoms of fatty liver disease and associated conditions, and offers advice on how to combat them, reports Gloucestershire Live.

Five Subtle Signs of Fatty Liver Disease

Unexplained fatigue

One of the most common, but often overlooked, symptoms is unexplained fatigue. “Many people consider fatigue to be a normal part of life, but prolonged fatigue without an obvious cause may indicate liver dysfunction,” says Professor Joseph.

Discomfort in the upper right part of the abdomen

Another telltale sign is mild pain or a feeling of fullness in the upper right part of the abdomen, where the liver is located. “Even if it is not intense, persistent discomfort should not be ignored,” warns Professor Joseph.

Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight

Fatty liver disease is closely linked to obesity, and many people struggle to lose weight. “Unexplained weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, or difficulty losing weight despite lifestyle changes, may be a sign of fatty liver disease,” Professor Joseph said.

A comprehensive approach to weight loss, including diet, exercise and possibly medication as a last resort, is essential.

Elevated liver enzymes

High levels of liver enzymes, often detected in routine blood tests, can be an early sign of liver inflammation. “It is essential to investigate further if your blood tests show these markers, particularly if you are overweight,” said Professor Joseph.

Darkening of the skin in certain areas

Darkening of the skin around the neck or armpits, called acanthosis nigricans, can indicate insulin resistance, often linked to fatty liver disease. “This can be a telltale sign that your body is having trouble processing insulin, which is contributing to the build-up of fat in the liver,” Professor Joseph said.

The link between obesity and fatty liver disease

Obesity is one of the major risk factors for fatty liver disease. “Excess visceral fat increases the likelihood of fat deposition in the liver, making weight management crucial to prevent or manage this disease,” Professor Joseph said.

What to do if you suspect fatty liver disease

Spotting the early signs of liver problems can save lives, so heed Professor Joseph’s advice and act quickly: “Early diagnosis means the disease can be managed or even reversed through lifestyle changes.”

Steps to follow:

• Adopt a healthy diet: Aim for a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. “A Mediterranean-style diet is particularly beneficial,” said Professor Joseph.

• Increase physical activity: Try to get at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week to reduce liver fat.

• Consider medical treatment: In some cases, medications like Mounjaro or Wegovy may be prescribed to help with weight management and liver health.

• Monitor your liver health: Regular follow-ups with your healthcare professional are essential to monitor liver health and adjust treatment if necessary.

Fatty liver disease is a serious, but often silent, disease. Being aware of these signs and taking proactive steps can protect your liver and overall health.

“Don’t ignore the signs your body is giving you,” recommends Professor Joseph. “Early intervention can make a significant difference in preventing the progression of fatty liver disease.”