The liver is the largest internal body organ and vital to several body functions, including alcohol metabolism. Sadly, alcohol intake causes the death of liver cells, but the cells regenerate over time. However, excessive and regular alcohol intake can overwhelm the liver, leading to Alcohol-Induced Liver Disease (AILD).

This condition occurs in different stages, causing a wide range of stage-specific symptoms. The symptoms are usually inconspicuous until the liver becomes severely damaged.

Stages of Alcohol-Induced Liver Disease

Three main stages of alcohol-induced liver disease occur, but there is an overlap between e ach stage in some cases. The three phases include:

Alcohol Fatty Liver Disease

Alcohol consumption for only a few days can lead to the accumulation of fats in the liver , a condition called alcoholic fatty liver acid (the first stage of alcohol- induce d liv er disease).

This stage rarely causes symptoms but indicates a harmful level of drinking. Fatty liver disease is reversible, and abstinence from alcohol for two weeks can normalize the liver cell.

Alcoholic Hepatitis

Alcoholic hepatitis is different fr om infectious hepatitis. It often results from prolonged alcohol intake. Alcoholic hepatitis often gives the first noticeable sign of liver damage from alcohol.

In a few cases, alcoholic hepatitis develops due to a large amount of alcohol consumption withi n a short time. Liver damage from mild alcoholic hepatitis is reversible with complete avoidance of alcohol.

Severe alcoholic hepatitis is life-threatening and responsible for several deaths yearly. Most people suffering from liver damage find out about t he condition at this stage.

Cirrhosis

The liver is significantly scarred in this stage, but symptoms may not occur. Cirrhosis is often irreversible, but avoiding alcohol can prevent further liver damage and significantly increase life expectancy.

A cont inuous intake of alcohol in people with alcohol-related cirrhosis results in a reduced survival rate.

Symptoms

Symptoms of alcohol-induced liver disease are often absent until the later stages of the condition. When symptoms do occur in the early stages , they include:

Fatigue

Diarrhea

Loss of appetite

Abdominal pain

General feeling of malaise

Advancements in the condition can lead to the following se vere symptoms:

Hair loss

Muscle atrophy and weakness

Significant weight loss

Itchy skin

Jaundice – the yellowing of the white part of the eyes and skin

Edema – swelling in the feet and ankles from fluid accumulation

Blotchy red palms

Clubbed fingers

Increased sensitivity to drugs and alcohol

Increased risk and frequency of gum and nose bleeding

Internal bleeding resulting in black or bloody vomit

Trouble sleeping, memory problems, and confusion

Treatment

No specific treatment is available for alcohol-induced liver disease, but avoiding alcohol for your remaining lifetime can reduce t he risk of further liver damage.

If you are addicted to alcohol, stopping alcohol intake may be difficult, but you can get medical support to stop alcohol consumption gradually.

If the liver is completely compromised, a liver transplant may be necessary. A liver transplant is a preferred treatment option when complications arise from cirrhosis, even with alcohol cessation.

Complications

In the last decade, deaths from alcohol-induced liver disease have increased considerably. Typical complications fro m alcohol-induced liver disease include:

Liver cancer

Fluid accumulation in the abdomen occurring alongside kidney failure

Internal bleeding

Accumulation of toxins in the brain (encephalopathy)

Alcohol abuse has several adverse effects on health and has become a leading cause of death. If you notice any symptoms of alcohol-induced liver disease, ensure you seek urgent medical care and avoid consuming alcohol.