Hepatic steatosis is caused by the buildup of fat in the liver, per the World Journal of Gastroenterology. Some individuals develop this disorder due to alcohol use, while others may develop it in relation to obesity, diabetes, or high cholesterol.
Some individuals have developed hepatic steatosis due to exposure to dangerous contaminants in the water at Camp Lejeune. If you fall into this category, you may seek compensation for your losses with the help of a lawyer.
If you believe you developed hepatic steatosis due to water exposure at Camp Lejeune, our Camp Lejeune water contamination lawyer can explain your legal options.
What Is the Most Common Cause of Hepatic Steatosis?
Many people develop hepatic steatosis due to heavy drinking. The buildup of fat in the liver makes it more difficult for the organ to work. However, not everyone gets hepatic steatosis due to alcohol usage. Many people develop nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In this situation, you may develop:
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver (NAFL)
Nonalcoholic fatty liver is a form of NAFLD, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). This condition means you have some fat in your liver, but no inflammation or damage to the liver. NAFL generally does not lead to serious liver complications but can cause pain if the liver swells.
Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH)
Some individuals develop NASH, which leads to liver damage and inflammation of the organ. It can even lead to cirrhosis and fibrosis. Many individuals who develop simple fatty liver or NASH have risk factors like:
- Obesity
- High cholesterol levels
- High blood pressure
- Insulin resistance
- Type 2 diabetes
Medical professionals have also found a connection between hepatic steatosis and exposure to certain chemicals found in the water at Camp Lejeune from 1953 to 1987.
How Serious Is Hepatic Steatosis?
The severity of a hepatic steatosis diagnosis can vary. Some individuals remain in good health after a hepatic steatosis diagnosis. For example, if you were diagnosed with NAFL, you may not experience any severe symptoms.
However, more serious cases like NASH can lead to cirrhosis of the liver, which is permanent liver damage. If cirrhosis worsens, your liver can fail. Other symptoms of NASH can include:
- Yellowing skin or eyes
- Itching
- Exhaustion
- Weakness
You cannot survive without your liver, so it’s very important to take hepatic steatosis seriously as soon as you receive a diagnosis.
Can Hepatic Steatosis Be Cured?
In many cases, patients with hepatic steatosis can take steps to reverse or mitigate their condition. Doctors may recommend losing weight, lowering cholesterol, and avoiding things that make your liver work harder, like drinking alcohol.
In some severe situations, individuals may require a liver transplant to recover from hepatic steatosis. You can discuss the treatment for your condition with your medical doctor to receive a personalized plan of care.
Can You Seek Compensation for Hepatic Steatosis?
It’s important to consider what caused your hepatic steatosis when discussing possible financial compensation. If your condition came from alcohol usage or due to conditions like Type 2 diabetes you generally do not have a legal claim to seek damages.
However, if you developed hepatic steatosis due to exposure to toxic substances at Camp Lejeune, you may have a claim under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2021. This act gives you the chance to file a claim to receive funds to cover your losses.
A Camp Lejeune water contamination lawyer can discuss the legalities of your situation to help you determine if you have a valid claim.
What Compensation Can You Get for Hepatic Steatosis?
If you developed hepatic steatosis due to exposure to contaminated water, you can work with a lawyer to file a claim for compensation. Many individuals in this situation receive funds to cover their:
- Medical expenses
- Wages lost at work
- Diminished earning potential
- Pain and suffering
A Camp Lejeune water contamination lawyer can also help your family with a wrongful death claim if you lost a family member to the effects of hepatic steatosis. We can review your situation compassionately to help you move forward.
In this situation, you may receive funds to cover your loved one’s medical expenses and the costs of a burial or funeral.
Talk to Us About Your Hepatic Steatosis Linked to Camp Lejeune
Many factors can lead to hepatic steatosis, including exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. If chemical exposure caused your condition, you can contact our team at Ben Crump Law, PLLC, for help.
Find out more by calling us. We can speak with you about your case during a free consultation.
