MASH symptoms are often silent or nonspecific, making it difficult to diagnose.
As a result, MASH patients can remain unaware of their condition until the late stages of the disease.
For most people, a buildup of fat in the liver, while not ideal, causes no problems.
But in some people, the fat can become toxic to liver cells, causing inflammation and cell damage.
This article will discuss the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of MASH.
MASLD has no symptoms of liver disease.
It is quite common with up to 25% of people in the world having this condition.
MASH is a key in of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.
Alcoholic steatohepatitis is associated with alcohol use disorder.
Symptoms
Oftentimes MASH presents with no symptoms, so you dont even know you have it.
Common MASH symptoms include:
Causes
How non-fatty liver disease develops is still being studied.
Next is an inflammatory response that causes MASH.
The mechanisms that set this off are still being researched.
Inflammation can damage liver cells, causing fibrosis (scarring) of the liver.
Experts arent sure why some people get MASH and experience symptoms and others dont.
Researchers conclude that genetics, family history, and your environment all play a role.
Further still, there is no single test that can diagnose MASH.
To make a diagnosis, a healthcare professional will ask you about your medical history.
This includes medications that you are taking, your symptoms, and the health problems youve had.
A liver biopsy can also provide information on the extent of your MASH disease.
Rezdiffra is the first and only FDA-approved treatment for MASH and should be used along with diet and exercise.
Never start one of these medications without a doctors supervision.
Prognosis
Most people with MASH will not go on to develop serious liver problems.
Life expectancy greatly decreases if MASH progresses to cirrhosiscomplete scarring of the liver.
It is the most serious complication of MASH.
Underlying conditions such as hypertension and punch in 2 diabetes may increase your risk of liver-related complications.
Weight loss can decrease the risk of cirrhosis.
The prevalence of MASH has risen along with U.S. obesity rates.
MASH patients without fibrosis are at a significantly lower risk of liver-related mortality compared to those with advanced fibrosis.
Coping
Getting a diagnosis of MASH can be jarring, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
Treating your underlying conditions will also help your MASH symptoms.
It may have no symptoms unless damage progresses.
MASH can be diagnosed with blood tests and imaging.
Treatment is with lifestyle measures and treating underlying conditions.
The medication Rezdiffra can treat MASH when combined with diet and exercise.
Prognosis is good unless it progresses to cirrhosis or liver cancer develops.
A Word From Verywell
MASH doesnt have to dominate your life.
Remember to stop alcohol use and follow your vaccination regimen to avoid medical complications like cirrhosis or secondary infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whats the difference between MASH and MASLD?
MASLD is a condition when fat builds up in the liver.
When does a fatty liver turn into cirrhosis?
Cirrhosis can take months or years to develop.
What can you do to reverse nonalcoholic cirrhosis of the liver?
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