What is NASH?

Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis, or NASH, is a serious liver condition that is becoming more common, especially in today’s lifestyle. It is a more advanced form of fatty liver disease, where fat buildup in the liver is accompanied by inflammation and liver cell damage. Unlike alcoholic liver disease, NASH is not related to alcohol consumption, which means it can affect anyone, including those who do not drink alcohol.

NASH is often called a “silent killer” because in the early stages, most people don’t feel any symptoms. If left untreated, NASH can progress to fibrosis (scarring), cirrhosis, liver failure, and even liver cancer.

How Does NASH Develop?

The main cause of NASH is the accumulation of fat in the liver due to metabolic issues such as:

• Obesity or being overweight
• Insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes
• High cholesterol and triglycerides
• Poor diet with excess sugar, fats, and processed foods
• Lack of physical activity

Over time, the fat in the liver leads to inflammation. This inflammation damages liver cells and causes scar tissue to form. If this continues, the liver’s normal structure and function are affected, making it harder for the liver to perform its vital roles.

Who is at Risk?

Anyone can develop NASH, but certain conditions increase the risk:

• People with obesity, especially abdominal fat
• Individuals with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
• People with high cholesterol and triglyceride levels
• Those with high blood pressure or metabolic syndrome
• Family history of liver disease
• Sedentary lifestyle and unhealthy eating habits

Early detection is key because catching it before serious damage occurs can make treatment much easier and more effective.

Symptoms of NASH

In many cases, NASH doesn’t cause symptoms in the beginning. As the condition worsens, the following may be experienced:

• Fatigue and feeling tired all the time
• Discomfort or pain in the upper right side of the abdomen
• Unexplained weight loss
• Weakness and poor appetite
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) in advanced stages
• Swelling in the abdomen or legs

If you notice these symptoms, especially if you have risk factors like obesity or diabetes, it’s important to consult a liver specialist.

How is NASH Diagnosed?

Doctors use a combination of tests to diagnose NASH:

1. Blood tests – To check liver enzymes and look for signs of liver damage.
2. Ultrasound or FibroScan – To detect fat and stiffness in the liver.
3. MRI or CT Scan – For detailed images of liver structure.
4. Liver biopsy – A small sample of liver tissue is examined to confirm inflammation and scarring.

Regular screening is recommended for individuals at high risk, even if they don’t have symptoms.

How is NASH Treated?

There is no specific medication that cures NASH, but it can be managed and even reversed if addressed early. Treatment focuses on lifestyle changes and controlling underlying conditions:

1. Healthy Diet

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins helps reduce fat in the liver. Avoid foods high in sugar, saturated fats, and processed ingredients.

2. Regular Exercise

Exercise helps with weight loss, improves insulin sensitivity, and reduces liver fat. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, five days a week.

3. Weight Loss

Losing even 5–10% of your body weight can significantly improve liver health and reduce inflammation.

4. Managing Diabetes and Cholesterol

Controlling blood sugar and lipid levels with medication and lifestyle changes plays a crucial role in improving NASH.

5. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking

Even though NASH is not caused by alcohol, drinking can worsen liver damage. Smoking also increases inflammation and should be avoided.

6. Regular Monitoring

Patients with NASH need regular follow-ups to monitor liver health and prevent complications.

Expert Care at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune

If you are concerned about liver health or have risk factors for NASH, Dr. Tushar Madhav Madke, Consultant – Transplant Hepatology at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, can guide you with expert care.

Dr. Madke has extensive experience in liver diseases, having completed his DM in Hepatology from the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS), New Delhi, and trained in Transplant Hepatology at Dr. Rela Institute, Chennai. He has been actively involved in managing liver diseases, including fatty liver and transplant care, for over five years.

At Ruby Hall Clinic, patients receive comprehensive care including:
✔ Diagnosis and management of liver diseases
✔ Personalized treatment plans
✔ Advanced procedures such as liver biopsy and endoscopy
✔ Continuous monitoring and lifestyle guidance

Dr. Madke is also involved in creating awareness about MASLD and NASH in Central India through health education programs and collaborations with organizations like the METTA Dāna Foundation.

Take Action Today

NASH may not show early symptoms, but ignoring it can lead to serious liver problems. With early diagnosis and proper care, you can reverse the condition and lead a healthier life. If you or someone you know is at risk, consult Dr. Tushar Madke at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, and take the first step towards better liver health.

📞 Contact us today to book an appointment and learn how to protect your liver for years to come.