Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) in Baton Rouge, LA
Ready to Consult a GI Physician?
Find a ProviderWhat is non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)?
There are two different categories of disease under the diagnosis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The first disease consists of a buildup of fat in your liver that doesn't cause any visible symptoms and has no accompanying inflammation. Usually, this form of NAFLD is diagnosed when other tests are performed. If this condition is affecting your well-being, your doctor can discuss the process you can take to safeguard your liver from additional damage. This particular type of NAFLD is also considered benign; however, it does have the potential to progress to NASH (non-alcoholic steatohepatitis), the more serious form of NAFLD.
Like NAFLD, it is also described by a buildup of fat in the liver that is accompanied by inflammation. NASH is generally seen in people who are larger, are diabetic or have high blood sugar, or have high cholesterol. Unless treated, NASH can harm liver function and create more health problems.
NASH is often diagnosed by the GI specialists at Gastroenterology Associates or hepatologists who are partnered with another medical specialist to give you comprehensive care. For more information about the NASH treatment options available in Baton Rouge, LA, get in touch with one of our locations to request a consultation today.
What are the symptoms of NASH?
Many patients who have NASH live without any symptoms. NASH might, at times, cause scarring of the liver, known as cirrhosis. If NASH symptoms do occur, they could involve:
- Unintentional weight loss
- Fatigue
- Pain in the upper right part of the abdomen
Am I at risk for NASH?
The precise cause of NASH is not known. While it can affect young people, NASH most often impacts adults. Other risk factors for NASH could include:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High cholesterol
- Asian or Hispanic descent (although NASH can be seen in anyone)
- Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
- Being overweight
- Diagnosed high blood pressure
- Post-menopausal phase of life
- High blood sugar
Can NASH be treated?
Without treatment, NASH could create additional health problems, like cirrhosis, liver cancer, and in the end, liver failure. When NASH is diagnosed, adjusting your weight, blood sugar levels, and cholesterol levels can help not just your liver but also your entire body.
After being diagnosed with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, you will need to regularly visit your Baton Rouge, LA gastroenterologist/hepatologist to monitor your liver. NASH treatments could consist of a combo of a healthy diet, limiting your sugar and sodium intake, and getting regular exercise. Additionally, we'll need to address any pre-existing conditions that may increase the risk of NASH.
Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis FAQs
What is the difference between NASH and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease?
NAFLD and NASH are types of fatty liver disease. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is the accumulation of fat in the liver, but with this condition, damage has not occurred. NASH is a form of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease that also involves the accumulation of fat in the liver; however, in this case, liver inflammation and damage (including scarring) have occurred.
How can you detect the signs of NASH if it does not produce symptoms?
Even though there may be no apparent symptoms of NASH, you might have extreme exhaustion or pain in the upper right side of your abdomen (where the liver is). In general, the initial sign of liver disease, like NASH, is when cirrhosis occurs (scarring of the liver). There are certain symptoms of cirrhosis that you can look out for, such as:
- Itching
- Abdominal swelling
- Yellowish appearance to the skin and eyes
If left untreated, what complications might result from non-alcoholic steatohepatitis?
Without proper treatment, NASH can lead to liver fibrosis and cirrhosis. Liver fibrosis develops when inflammation and scarring impact the liver. The scar tissue that arises can overcome healthy areas (cirrhosis), which can cause liver function to slow or cease altogether. Without treatment, these conditions can result in liver failure and cancer.
Is the damage from non-alcoholic steatohepatitis reversible?
People who are in the initial stages of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis and have not experienced severe damage to the liver might be able to reverse the effects through lifestyle changes. This may include healthy eating, regular exercise, and losing weight (if necessary). However, if long-term or more severe damage is observed, the effects of the condition may be beyond repair. Our Baton Rouge, LA gastroenterology providers can offer additional information and details regarding this disease.
Improve your liver health
Receiving the medical attention you need to manage your liver health and minimize the effects of NASH can boost your day-to-day living. At Gastroenterology Associates, our GI doctors are dedicated to placing your health and wellness first, and we take a patient-centered approach to your care. If you think you may have this condition or are searching for a provider who offers NASH treatment in Baton Rouge, LA, please contact your nearest location to request an appointment with a gastroenterologist.
Reviews
Very friendly and knowledgeable staff
Great visit, friendly and knowledgeable
Always thorough, compassionate and extremely knowledgeable!!!!
Dr. Kurz has been very easy to work with so far. I think we have a little more work to do. I’m looking forward to getting on with this treatment
Thorough, friendly great doctor! Staff is very nice & accommodating.
10
Total Reviews
4.9
Average Rating