Every year millions of people around the world are told they have a serious form of liver disease called NASH. For many patients, the diagnosis is a surprise since NASH can develop with few to no serious symptoms. Patients are typically counseled to undergo lifestyle changes such as weight loss to slow disease progression. This is because prolonged liver inflammation can lead to even more serious disease, such as cirrhosis or cancer. This can feel overwhelming to a person who has likely struggled with maintaining a healthy weight. But there are new options on the horizon.
It is troubling to receive a chronic medical diagnosis. And often NASH patients are already managing other conditions such as diabetes. With NASH on the rise globally, there is focused effort to find effective therapies. For patients and their loved ones coming to terms with a NASH diagnosis, it is important to create a game plan. Assembling the right care team is a critical first step. Gaining and maintaining knowledge of emerging treatment approaches is also wise. This can include conversations with one's doctor, joining a patient community, and engaging with advocacy groups related to liver disease.
Today there are numerous studies looking at how to improve the quality of life for NASH patients. From understanding the role of genetics, to developing better tools for faster diagnosis, there is concerted effort to help patients with NASH. Becoming involved in these conversations is a good way to stay connected as the field of NASH knowledge continues to grow, hopefully one day leading to an effective cure.
Ready to learn about research studies that may benefit patients with NASH? Take a look at the trials that are currently recruiting. Each will show criteria a potential participant must meet to enroll - this is called eligibility criteria. There can be a number of factors here that an interested person must match. And just because someone is not a match for one trial does not mean that will be the case for all trials since each has different eligibility requirements.
A series of short articles that look at different aspects of life with NASH.
Many adults at risk for NASH have not talked to their primary care physician about the concern as it can be hard to know how to bring it up. Here are some tips to help ease the conversation.
A liver biopsy helps in the diagnosis of liver disease, but can be distressing. Here are some ways to stay emotionally strong before, during and after the procedure.
Losing excess weight together with an active lifestyle are solid ways for NASH patients to manage their disease. For those unsure of where to start, here are ten ideas to get things rolling.
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