Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis, or NASH, is a form of fatty liver disease in which fat buildup leads to inflammation and liver cell injury. Unlike alcoholic liver disease, NASH occurs in people who consume little or no alcohol. Over time, ongoing inflammation can cause fibrosis (scarring) and progress to cirrhosis if left untreated.
In its early stages, NASH often has no obvious signs. As the disease advances, you may notice:
NASH typically develops when excess fat in the liver triggers inflammation. Key risk factors include:
If you've been diagnosed with NASH or suspect fatty liver disease, don't wait to protect your liver health. Schedule a consultation with our board-certified gastroenterologist in Houston. We'll perform a thorough evaluation, develop a personalized treatment plan, and support you every step of the way toward reducing inflammation and improving liver function.
Call us today at 832-632-4070 or visit our online portal to book your appointment and start your journey to better liver health.
We've successfully treated more than 1.5K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
NASH (Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis) is liver inflammation and damage caused by fat buildup in the liver, not by alcohol use.
Yes. NAFLD (Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease) refers to simple fat accumulation in the liver, while NASH includes inflammation and liver cell damage.
The ICD-10 code for NASH is K75.81, used by healthcare providers to diagnose and track the condition.
A NASH-friendly diet emphasizes lean proteins, fish, whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and nuts. It's best to avoid added sugars, refined carbs, and processed foods.
Yes. If left untreated, persistent inflammation and scarring from NASH can progress to cirrhosis or even liver failure.
Treatment focuses on lifestyle changes like weight loss, healthy eating, and regular exercise. In some cases, medications such as vitamin E or insulin-sensitizing drugs may be prescribed.
Diagnosis may involve blood tests to assess liver function, imaging studies like ultrasound or MRI, and sometimes a liver biopsy for definitive assessment.
Early intervention and sustained weight loss (7-10% of body weight) can reduce liver fat and inflammation, potentially reversing some damage.
Aim for gradual weight loss through a balanced, nutrient-rich diet and at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week to support liver health.
Contact GastroDoxs to schedule an appointment with our board-certified gastroenterologist who specializes in NASH care and personalized treatment plans.
