nonalcoholic steatohepatitis - Liver & Pancreas Disorders Message Board

rcart0 · 03-13-2002, 10:34 AM

I have been diagnosed as having NASH. My mother passed away in February due to liver cancer after having NASH. I don't know what I should watch for or what I should do to convince my primary doctor that I need to see an oncologist. Without his referral, my insurance won't pay. My liver biopsy showed no cancer but I have all of the symptoms. Give me any advice on any of this you may have. I am already experiencing edema in my legs, forgetfulness, severe itching, and a lot of abdominal pain around the right side. I also have some swelling over my left abdominal area, around the spleen.

GenaH · 04-20-2002, 11:41 AM

Hi, RCART0
I'm sorry to hear that you lost your mother. Please accept my condolences.
I, too, have been diagnosed with NASH. My symptoms are typical to the discription on this diagnosis. WHile this is not a disease it is a "syndrome" so to speak. BUt the good news is that it is treatable and is not fatal. Find a gastroenterologist and go along with his treatment. I do have pain with mine just as you have described that you are experiencing. But I have made some major changes to my life that seem to help. They are as follows:
1. Reduce fat/calories
2. Stop eating late at night...that is eat around 6pm.
3. Exercise regularly
4. Drink water 8/8 oz glasses at least per day
5. Eat low fat/low cal yogurt twice/day.

It has worked. If I stray from any of this, the pain returns. My doctor has me in for followup and monitoring of liver enzymes every three months. I go again in May.

Keep your chin up. I'll be watching for your next post.

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