The liver is necessary for the body’s detoxification, bile production for digestion, nutrient and vitamin storage, and blood clotting regulation. The liver’s capacity to carry out these tasks, however, can be severely impaired by long-term alcohol misuse, and mostly we can know about the right condition with alcoholic liver disease images.
Alcohol Metabolism and Liver Damage
When alcohol reaches the circulatory system, the liver works extremely hard to break it down. Dangerous compounds like acetaldehyde are created during this procedure. These harmful byproducts cause swelling and scarring of the liver tissue gradually, triggering a chain reaction of adverse effects that can lead to several kinds of liver illnesses.
What causes alcohol-related liver disease?
Drink-related liver damage is often prevalent to occur in those who consume alcohol in excess. Additionally, it might worsen various types of liver disease.
Different factors might also increase the chance of liver injury. Your risk of liver damage is increased if you combine any of these conditions with excessive alcohol use. Among them are:
- A weight that falls between overweight and obese
- Having diabetes
- Compared to males, women are more susceptible to the harmful effects of drinking.
- Having a history of liver disease, such as hepatitis C
- Alcohol-related disorders and addiction are typically passed on through families.
The 3 stages of alcohol-related liver disease
1- Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD)
AFLD is the initial stage of liver disease caused by alcohol use. This disease originates from fat build up in the liver cells as a result of drinking too much alcohol. Since AFLD frequently exhibits no symptoms, many people may be unaware that they have it. Nonetheless, visuals of alcohol-related liver illnesses can be used to identify fatty liver. The positive side is that alcohol use can be controlled or stopped to reverse the effects.
2- Alcoholic Hepatitis
Alcoholic hepatitis might arise if alcohol use is not controlled. This disease has been defined by inflammation of the liver, which results in symptoms including high bilirubin in alcoholics, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), vomiting, and stomach discomfort. Alcoholic hepatitis can be fatal in extreme circumstances and has to be treated right away.
3- Alcohol-Induced Cirrhosis
The most severe stage of ARLD, cirrhosis, is the result of long-term liver damage. Alcohol-induced cirrhosis causes severe scarring of the hepatocyte tissue, impairing the liver’s capacity to function normally. Drinking too much alcohol can cause nosebleeds, disorientation, rapid bleeding, and swelling of the belly and legs. Unfortunately, cirrhosis is incurable, and in more severe cases, liver transplantation may be the only available therapy.
Symptoms and Warning Signs of Alcohol-Related Liver Diseases
Early Symptoms
Early identification of alcohol-related liver disease might be difficult since symptoms can be minimal or nonexistent. But when the illness worsens, symptoms become more noticeable and might include:
- Weakness
- Drowsiness
- Appetite diminishes
- Vomiting and nausea
- Stomach ache
- Edema
- Slight jaundice
- Pale stools
- Dark urine
- Nasal bleeding
- Easily bruised
- Ascites
Signs Your Liver Is Healing from Alcohol
You may be curious how to find out whether your liver is recovering if you’ve decided to give up alcohol. Although each person’s experience with liver healing is different, several positive signs are:
- Increased energy
- Raised hunger
- Reduced belly edema
- Restoring normal bilirubin levels
It is noteworthy that although the liver has remarkable regenerative capabilities, chronic harm like cirrhosis is irreversible. Stopping alcohol use early on and keeping it that way is essential to prevent liver damage.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Alcohol-Related Liver Diseases
Diagnostic Procedures
A combined analysis of the patient’s health history, physical assessment, and laboratory testing is usually used to diagnose alcohol-related liver disease. Liver function tests (LFTs) assess the blood’s bilirubin and enzyme levels to provide information regarding the liver’s condition.
Alcohol-related liver illnesses can be seen on imaging examinations like CT and ultrasound scans, which can help determine the degree of damage. A liver biopsy can be required in particular cases to verify the diagnosis.
Treatment Options
Treatment related to alcohol liver diseases, house of zen focuses on preventing the growth of liver damage and alleviating symptoms. The core components of the therapy consist of:
- Alcohol withdrawal: Complete abstaining from alcohol is the primary goal of therapy. This can stop more harm and enable the liver to recover early.
- Nutritional support: The liver’s health depends on a well-balanced diet high in vitamins and minerals. Supplementation may be required in situations of malnutrition.
- Medication: Doctors may give corticosteroids and other drugs to control symptoms and lessen liver inflammation.
- Liver transplant: A donor liver may be the only effective therapy option for patients with severe cirrhosis in which the liver is no longer able to function.
Drink in Moderation
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourage moderation in alcohol consumption to lower the dangers to one’s short- and long-term health.
Guidelines for Moderate Alcohol Consumption
- Women are limited to one drink daily, with a weekly maximum of seven drinks.
- Men should limit their weekly alcohol consumption to 14 drinks or two drinks each day.
Maintain Your Health with The Right Help
A person’s life may change if they call for professional support at a rehabilitation facility like the House of Zen for alcoholism. We are dedicated to taking a holistic approach to overcoming addiction. Our support, personalized treatment, and experienced medical detox will encourage you to reclaim control of what truly matters to you.
