What is non-alcoholic steatohepatitis?
There are two different categories of disease for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The first surrounds a buildup of fat in your liver that causes no visible symptoms or coexisting inflammation. Often, this disease is found when additional tests are being performed. If this type of disease is having an impact on your health, your doctor will discuss the steps you can take to preserve your liver from additional damage. This particular type of NAFLD is also usually considered non-cancerous, however, it does have the possibility to progress to NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis).
The other type is more serious and is known as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. It is also defined by the buildup of fat in a patient’s liver in addition to inflammation. NASH is generally found in individuals who are larger, are diabetic and have high blood sugar, or have high cholesterol. Without proper care, NASH can impact liver function and create more health complications.
NASH is most commonly diagnosed by the gastroenterologists at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology or hepatologists who partner with other medical specialists to offer comprehensive care. To learn more about NASH treatments in Indianapolis, IN, get in touch with our practice today.
What are the symptoms of NASH?
Most patients who have non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) manage day-to-day without any symptoms. NASH can, sometimes, cause scarring of the liver, which is called cirrhosis. If symptoms of NASH do occur, they might involve:
- Everlasting fatigue
- Unintentional loss of weight
- An ache in the upper right portion of the abdomen
In the event you have been diagnosed with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and develop difficulty breathing, swollen legs, or are more tired than normal, contact your doctor right away. Our experts at Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology can provide care.
Who is at risk for NASH?
The precise cause of NASH remains unknown. Even though it may affect younger people, the condition typically is seen in adults. Additional risk factors for NASH could include:
- High blood sugar levels
- Hispanic or Asian descent (but NASH can be seen in anyone)
- Post-menopause
- Type 2 (adult-onset) diabetes
- Blood pressure that is high
- NAFLD
- Being overweight
- High cholesterol
Can NASH be treated?
If left untreated, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis could create additional health issues, such as cirrhosis, liver cancer, and in the end, liver failure. When NASH is diagnosed, taking control of your weight, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels can positively impact not just your liver, but, also, your whole body.
After being diagnosed with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, you will want to routinely see your Indianapolis, IN GI specialist/hepatologist in order to monitor your liver. Treating NASH might consist of a combo of eating a healthy diet, avoiding sugar and sodium, and getting regular exercise. Part of the treatment process includes addressing any previous conditions that may increase the risk of NASH.
Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis FAQs
What is the difference between NAFLD and NASH?
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) are both forms of fatty liver disease. NAFLD is the buildup of fat within the liver. However, with this variation, no damage is present. NASH is a type of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease that also involves the buildup of fat in the liver, yet, in this case, inflammation, damage, and even scarring have developed.
How might you recognize the signs of NASH if it does not cause symptoms?
Though there may be no noticeable symptoms of NASH, you may notice pain in the upper right abdominal area (where the liver is) or experience fatigue. Typically, the first sign of liver disease, like NASH, is when cirrhosis (scarring of the liver) occurs. Cirrhosis may cause certain symptoms you can watch for, including:
- Itching of the skin
- Yellowing of the eyes and skin
- Swelling in the abdominal area
Without treatment, what complications can result with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis?
In the absence of treatment, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis could result in liver fibrosis and cirrhosis of the liver. Fibrosis occurs when inflammation and scarring damage the liver. This scar tissue that arises can replace healthy tissue (cirrhosis), which can cause liver function to slow or stop completely. Without care, fibrosis and cirrhosis can lead to liver failure and cancer.
Is the damage caused by NASH reversible?
Individuals who are in the beginning stages of NASH and have not endured advanced liver damage might be able to successfully reverse the effects of the condition by incorporating lifestyle modifications, such as healthy eating, regular exercise, and weight loss. But if long-term or more extensive damage has occurred, the effects of the condition may be irreversible. Our Indianapolis, IN digestive health specialists can offer further information and details surrounding this disease.
Improve your liver health
Getting the attention you need to manage your liver health and minimize the impact of NASH could increase your quality of life. At Indianapolis Gastroenterology and Hepatology, our team is here to place your overall wellness first, and we take a patient-centric approach to treating NASH. If you have recently been diagnosed with this condition or are seeking a practitioner who offers treatment for NASH in Indianapolis, IN, call our facility to schedule a visit with a gastroenterologist.
