Non-alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) is a serious form of fatty liver disease (FLD)
NASH is generally caused by excessive accumulation of fats in the fatty tissues in the liver, leading to inflammation, and eventual scarring. It is not curable and can only be avoided. When this occurs, there are several treatment options.
Steatosis is a common condition that can be treated with medication. The most common medications used to treat steatosis are alfalfa or oat bran extract, dithranol and other cholesterol. Another option is to remove the fatty deposits from the liver using surgery. Liposuction can also be an option, but it is best left as an option for people who already have moderate steatosis. Surgery is usually used to remove liver tumors and other enlarged liver tissue. The liver is then surgically removed to prevent further damage.
Fatty liver treatments do not stop with surgery. Surgery alone cannot prevent the accumulation of fats in the liver because it only addresses the immediate problem. Patients must make sure that they maintain a healthy diet and exercise regimen to prevent the build-up of fatty deposits in their body.
There are several treatments available for the prevention and treatment of NASH and steatosis. Some patients may benefit from taking anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and aspirin. Other patients may need to take other medications to combat inflammation. Some patients may have to combine more than one type of treatment.
One form of treatment that is used is Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which include diclofenac and ibuprofen. These drugs help reduce inflammation and control pain and itching. They can also help speed up the healing process of fatty deposits. However, NSAIDs should not be taken for a long period of time. Longer than 30 days can actually cause liver damage.
To treat NASH and steatosis, more invasive forms of treatment such as surgery are often recommended. Liposuction and other surgical procedures such as arterial embolization (using a needle to pump drugs through the arteries, reducing fatty deposits), may be required. Patients may also need to take prescription medications to reduce inflammation, such as corticosteroids, in addition to surgery.
Some patients may be able to avoid surgery or drugs if they lose weight and increase exercise and other activities that reduce fatty deposits in the body. Strict diet and exercise will also reduce fatty deposits. People who are overweight will also need to learn proper nutrition and exercise.
Those suffering from liver problems, especially those with excess triglycerides, will need to maintain a healthy weight
This means losing weight and eating a healthy diet. People who smoke will need to quit smoking and stay away from fatty foods and beverages. If alcohol consumption is high, they should cut down on alcohol and reduce consumption to help improve liver health.
NASH and steatosis are the result of accumulation of fat in the liver. When fatty deposits occur, they clog up the liver and can become cirrhotic. Cirrhosis is the accumulation of scar tissues and toxins in the liver causing damage. The liver is part of the body's immune system and removes waste products and poisons from the body. It helps the body fight infection and maintain a healthy function.
If the fatty deposits continue to accumulate over time, they can cause steatosis and the buildup of toxins in the blood. If these toxins remain in the liver, it will lead to liver disease and liver failure, including damage to the kidneys and the brain.
NASH and steatosis can be controlled but not cured. To prevent further damage from occurring to your liver and kidney, it is important to watch your weight and exercise.
If you have symptoms, go to your doctor for a diagnosis of NASH and steatosis so that he or she can treat the condition. To keep yourself from having additional liver and kidney damage, try to avoid fatty foods and drinks and drink plenty of water to flush the body of toxins and to keep inflammation to a minimum.