New to this- very scared

[Thea123]

I don't even have an official diagnosis yet. Though perhaps NASH. I have a liver biopsy in 3 days. I think only of the worse and dying. How do I tell my children (all adults) about this. We are so close. They will be devastated. My mind is a mess.

[raenata]

What’s the background? Why do you think you have NASH? I’m in a similar position - I have abnormal liver function tests but they have no idea what the diagnosis is - a process of exclusion it seems.

[Thea123 in reply to raenata]

During an endoscope they discovered esophageal varices. After an ultrasound they noticed a slightly enlarged spleen. Both indicators of portal hypertension. Portal hypertension is from liver damage. The doctor mentioned the possibility of NASH as I am overweight. This is such a scary process. I keep thinking of the worse

[raenata in reply to Thea123]

Ah OK. I am waiting for one of those procedures but to check for the cause of pain in my chest. My ultrasounds (x3) were normal, fibroscan normal (I'm getting this repeated) but LFTs high - ALT and GGT. They seem to think mine is autoimmune but they have used the term NASH before. They are quite uncertain so I'm waiting for a biopsy too. Take care!

[Thea123 in reply to raenata]

Oh my goodness. It's the unknown which is scary. Good luck with your biopsy. We'll get it figured out !

[AyrshireK]

I know it is easy to say but try not to stress until you actually know what is going on. Stress can exacerbate any physical symptoms and the fact you are actually having some tests is great because hopefully you will find out what is going on.

What has led you to have the biopsy? Have you got physical symptoms just now?

Don't write yourself off, a great many people live long lives even with liver disease and many can actually be reversed with either medication or lifestyle changes.

Katie

[Thea123 in reply to AyrshireK]

Thank you so much for the kind words Katie. It was discovered matter of factly, that I have portal hypertension (enlarged spleen and blood vessels). The biopsy is to get a diagnosis, because I have good blood work and no other symptoms, other then overweight...the cause??

I am devastated that I did this to myself. 2 days until the biopsy and I am so scared.

[Owlie in reply to Thea123]

Hi, okay, you need to get the weight off and exercise. If you drink alcohol, stop if you can or get help. Overhaul your diet, small portions, nothing processed or fried, plenty of fish, chicken, avoid red meat, sugar, salt and don’t eat many carbs, no sweets. Drink lots of water. Exercise, start small and build up, I do 30 mins cardio and 30 mins free weights a day, when I started I couldn’t do 10 minute. This will help. Best wishes Owlie

[Thea123 in reply to Owlie]

Thank you! As soon as it was mentioned that I could have liver damage (in March), I started 30 minute brisk walks a day and have been following the diet you suggest. I have lost over 10 pounds. I will do whatever it takes. If anything, if it ends up really bad, I want to be eligible for a transplant. All this is so scary, but I'm trying to maintain some control.

I am so happy I found this discussion group. Otherwise, it's very lonely.

[Owlie in reply to Thea123]

Hi I know it’s hard but you will get lots of support on here. Well done on the weight loss! Take one day at a time and just keep sticking to that healthy lifestyle, it can only help. Best wishes Owlie x

[Jojochr in reply to Owlie]

Owlie, I was wondering. You said no fried food, i have been frying off onions and veg for putting in curry, I have been using olive oil?

[Owlie in reply to Jojochr]

Hi, the reason I said that is because grilling is supposed to be healthier...probably thinking more along the lines of bacon sausage and egg!

[Highliverenzymes in reply to Jojochr]

What your describing doesn't sound like frying it sounds like you sautéed the onions in olive which is fine. Although olive oil is a healthy oil still want to stay within your macros. Ive been using an app and plugging in all my food to keep track.

[Jojochr in reply to Highliverenzymes]

Thanks, I was thinking about an app, to measure carb and fats what one are you using? I track on my fitness pal and sync with my samsung health which gives a daily recommended intake of fat, protien and carbs but I'm not sure if gives the recommended amount of these for liver disease.... 🤔

[HNEllos2004]

I had I liver biopsy a few years ago and I go for another one in a few months. I know it’s scary but it’s a fast procedure and your in and out. Medication and treatment plans have come a long way. Do what you can for ur health diet and exercise. How were ur LFT labs ??

[Thea123]

They were all normal, which gives me some hope. I go back next week for a repeat. I do have an enlarged spleen and enlarged blood vessels, which takes away the hope...portal hypertension. It's hard going through this now with a pandemic! Very alone. Much thanks for reaching out.

[ThreeSmiles]

Good luck with the biopsy today/tomorrow. 🤞🤞 for you.

Miles

[Thea123 in reply to ThreeSmiles]

Thank you! It's done and over with. They were very kind and attentive. Being in the hospital at this time was quite hard, as I've been very attentive with self isolating. Anyway it's done. I'm going to try and relax for a few days before getting wound up for the results. Having this group is comforting.

[ThreeSmiles in reply to Thea123]

That’s good then Thea 👍 . Hope it wasn’t or isn’t now too sore. I can’t ever remember having a biopsy but have been in wards where people have. They didn’t like the lying flat bit for a long time after it that’s for sure!

[Koassilator in reply to ThreeSmiles]

Oopsy. 🤕