Alcohol liver disease can be defined as the damage to the liver due to excessive alcohol usage. People who abuse alcohol over many years and those who are physically addicted to the substance are most likely to damage their internal organs to such an extent that alcohol liver disease may result. Alcohol liver disease is a major cause of death worldwide and it cannot be cured by abstinence. The disease can cause alcoholic hepatitis as well as cirrhosis, both which may prove fatal
Alcohol Liver Disease, often referred to as ALD, is a form of liver damage caused by excessive alcohol consumption over an extended period of time. If you find yourself struggling with alcohol addiction, it is key to understand the consequences it can have on your liver.
The liver plays a vital role in processing alcohol and breaking it down. However, when you consistently consume excessive amounts of alcohol, the liver becomes overwhelmed and unable to function properly. This can lead to various stages of Alcohol Liver Disease.
There are three main stages of ALD: alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis. Alcoholic fatty liver disease occurs when fat accumulates in the liver cells, causing inflammation. Although this stage is reversible, continued alcohol abuse can progress to the more severe stages.
Alcoholic hepatitis is the next stage and involves inflammation and swelling of the liver. It can cause symptoms such as jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), abdominal pain, fever and nausea. It is vital to seek medical assistance at this stage, as continued alcohol consumption can lead to irreversible damage.
The most severe stage of ALD is cirrhosis, which occurs when healthy liver tissue is replaced by scar tissue. This scar tissue prevents the liver from functioning properly and can lead to life-threatening complications. Symptoms of cirrhosis include fatigue, weight loss, swelling in the legs and mental confusion.
It’s important to note that alcohol-related liver disease is entirely preventable by abstaining from excessive alcohol consumption. If you’re facing alcohol addiction, seeking help from professionals in addiction treatment centers or rehab facilities can provide the support and guidance you need to overcome this disease.
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