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MASH

Digestive Disease Specialists Our Services MASH

Digestive Disease Specialists

Gastroenterology Practice located in Moline, IL & Bettendorf, IA

About 6% of people in the United States have metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) — the newer approved term for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). At Digestive Disease Specialists, with locations in Moline, Illinois, and Bettendorf, Iowa, the skilled gastroenterology team diagnoses and provides treatments for MASH to eliminate worrisome symptoms and complications. Schedule an evaluation by phone or request one online today to learn more.

MASH Q&A

What is MASH?

MASH is liver inflammation caused by excess fat cells, which can eventually lead to liver damage. 

MASH is similar to alcohol use-related hepatitis. However, it typically stems from high blood sugar, high blood lipids, or being overweight. 

Ongoing liver inflammation can damage your liver, causing scarring and eventually cirrhosis or liver failure. 

What are the symptoms of MASH?

MASH, previously called NASH, can cause the following symptoms:

  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Aching in the right upper abdomen
  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Loss of appetite

Complications linked to untreated MASH include liver-related diseases, stroke, or heart attack. Liver disease can progress without noticeable symptoms in its early stages. 

Advanced stages of MASH could cause symptoms of cirrhosis, such as:

  • Yellowing of the skin or whites of your eyes
  • Easy bruising
  • Swelling
  • Visible spider-like blood vessels
  • Persistent itchiness
  • Confusion.

Progressive fibrosis or cirrhosis of the liver happens to 5-12% of people with MASH.

What increases the risk of MASH?

The following factors increase the risk of MASH:

  • High cholesterol
  • High blood sugar
  • High blood pressure
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Insulin resistance 
  • Underactive thyroid or pituitary glands
  • Weight challenges
  • Obesity
  • Metabolic syndrome
  • Being over 40
  • Being postmenopausal
  • Rapid weight loss
  • Protein deficiency
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women

It’s possible to stop mild to moderate liver damage from progressing. You can sometimes reverse liver damage by making healthy lifestyle adjustments. 

How is MASH diagnosed?

The Digestive Disease Specialists experts diagnose MASH after discussing your symptoms, medications, medical history, and lifestyle habits. They also complete a physical exam and order diagnostic tests, such as blood tests and imaging procedures (CT scans or abdominal ultrasound).

Tests that measure fibrosis in the liver include FibroScan® and magnetic resonance elastography. You might also need a liver biopsy to confirm a MASH diagnosis and determine how to best treat your condition. 

How is MASH treated?

Treating MASH may include one or more of the following:

  • Taking medications or altering your current medication regimen
  • Losing 3-10% of your body weight
  • Managing healthy blood sugar, blood pressure, and blood cholesterol levels
  • Eating a well-balanced and heart-healthy diet low in saturated fat
  • Exercising regularly 
  • Maintaining a healthy body weight
  • Not smoking

Focus on eating plant foods and fish as part of a Mediterranean diet, and consider drinking coffee.

Schedule a MASH evaluation at Digestive Disease Specialists by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.

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