Obesity & Liver Disease | Comorbidities for Obese Individuals

Obesity affects far more than the number you see on the scale. Millions of Americans suffer from obesity comorbidities like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and steatohepatitis. Fatty liver disease, also called hepatic steatosis, can be devastating to your overall health. Additionally, you may suffer from metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance from being obese. Luckily, the Lap-Band® Program can help. But before exploring adjustable gastric banding, you first should understand some of these comorbidities and their potential effects.

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD)

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, or NASH, simply means that a person carries more fat than average in their liver. This condition is one of the most common obesity comorbidities. Those affected may not suffer from any symptoms at first, but there is a risk of this condition progressing to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis.

Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)

NASH is far more serious than NAFLD. Those with non-alcoholic steatohepatitis have inflammation in their liver. Inflammation of the liver can lead to severe, life-altering conditions like cirrhosis and fibrosis. Any liver scarring resulting from NASH may put you at greater risk of developing cancer. Only about 20% of NAFLD cases progress to this stage, but it is essential to notice symptoms like swelling of the abdomen, reddened palms, enlarged blood vessels, and jaundice.

Metabolic Syndrome and Other Disorders

Another obesity comorbidity is metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a group of risk factors stemming from obesity. If not adequately managed, these risk factors can lead to further health problems, like arterial plaque, blood clots, heart attack, and stroke. It is unclear why metabolic syndrome develops, but experts believe it probably has many causes. Some of the potential causes of metabolic syndrome are insulin resistance, obesity, hormonal imbalance, and alcohol and tobacco abuse.

How the Lap-Band Can Help

Reducing weight is one of the best ways to mitigate obesity comorbidities. The Lap-Band is a fully adjustable gastric band that limits the amount of food you can intake. Placed via minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, the Lap-Band helps patients gradually and sustainably lose weight. In addition, the Lap-Band Program works with you to establish lasting healthy eating and exercise habits. For help getting started, contact Utah Lap-Band.