Alcoholic liver disease refers to a group of conditions that affect the liver as a result of alcohol consumption. Excessive drinking can impair liver function and increase the risk of developing serious liver-related diseases.
Types of Alcoholic Liver Disease
- Fatty Liver – Excessive alcohol intake causes the liver to accumulate fat, leading to liver enlargement.
- Alcoholic Hepatitis – This condition involves inflammation of the liver due to alcohol consumption, which can result in the gradual death of healthy liver cells.
- Alcohol Cirrhosis – Chronic alcohol use can lead to severe scarring of the liver, causing the development of fibrous scar tissue.
Symptoms of Alcoholic Liver Disease
Symptoms vary depending on the type of alcoholic liver disease, but common signs include:
- Fatty Liver:
- Discomfort on the right side of the abdomen
- Fatigue and weakness
- Weight loss
- Alcoholic Hepatitis:
- Pain around the liver area
- Fever
- Weakness and nausea
- Vomiting
- Appetite loss
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Alcohol Cirrhosis:
- Portal hypertension
- Enlarged spleen
- Malnutrition
- Intestinal bleeding
- Abdominal fluid buildup
- Kidney failure
Causes of Alcoholic Liver Disease
The primary cause of alcoholic liver disease is excessive alcohol consumption. The liver plays a crucial role in filtering toxins, producing bile for digestion, storing energy, and breaking down alcohol. Over time, heavy alcohol use can overwhelm the liver’s ability to process alcohol, leading to damage and disease.
Diagnosis of Alcoholic Liver Disease
To diagnose alcoholic liver disease, healthcare providers may perform various tests and procedures, including:
- Blood tests
- Liver biopsy
- Ultrasound
- CT scan
- Liver fibroscan
