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NASH Treatment
Non-Alcoholic SteatoHepatitis, or NASH, is the most severe form of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). This condition involves excess fat being stored in liver cells, which hinders liver function. The buildup of fatty cells in this case is not related to alcohol consumption.
What is NASH?
N.A.S.H. is a form of NAFLD that involves hepatitis, causing liver inflammation. This can lead to irreversible liver damage, such as fibrosis or scarring of the liver. Many people experience mild symptoms for years before being diagnosed. The longer patients remain unaware, the more likely it is to progress to liver cancer or liver failure.
NASH Symptoms?
Often referred to as the silent liver disease, early stages of NASH may produce no symptoms, and many people don’t realize they have it. Additionally, indicators are nonspecific, making diagnosis difficult. As the condition progresses and cirrhosis develops, symptoms may include:
Intense Itching
Fatigue
Jaundice
A swollen belly
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of NAFLD or NASH is unknown, but it is most common in people who are obese or have diabetes or pre-diabetes.
Diagnosis of NASH
Non-Alcoholic SteatoHepatitis is typically discovered during a routine blood test or screening for a different medical condition. At this point, your doctor may notice high levels of liver enzymes or an enlarged abdomen during an ultrasound, indicating potential fatty liver disease. Your doctor will then conduct a series of tests, including a physical to determine your BMI, blood tests, liver biopsy, and/or imaging tests. These tests will confirm whether you have fatty liver disease and allow your doctor to develop appropriate treatments.
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Treatment Options
The first recommendation your doctor is likely to make is to lose weight. Since being overweight is one of the main indicators of NASH, weight loss can help combat the condition and reduce fat in your liver. If diabetes is believed to be a direct cause, your doctor will have you start monitoring your blood sugar and taking the appropriate medications. Additionally, your doctor will likely advise you to stop drinking alcohol, be cautious with dietary supplements, and consult your provider before taking any supplements. This will help protect your liver and prevent any additional damage. Without proper and timely treatment, NASH can progress quickly and become life-threatening. Increased awareness and education about Non-Alcoholic SteatoHepatitis can lead to earlier diagnoses and more precise treatments.