The digestive system is a vital part of the human body...
Liver disease can be caused by viruses, drugs, poisons, or...
Alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD) is a
condition that occurs when the liver is damaged by excessive alcohol
consumption. It can range from fatty liver disease to cirrhosis.
Stages
of ARLD
Fatty liver disease
The first stage of ARLD, where fat builds up in the
liver. This can happen after drinking too much alcohol for a short period
of time.
Alcoholic hepatitis
An inflammation of the liver that can lead to liver
cell death and permanent scarring. This can happen after drinking too much
alcohol over a longer period of time.
Cirrhosis
The destruction of normal liver
tissue, which is replaced by scar tissue. This is the most serious stage
of ARLD.
Symptoms
Yellowing
of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice)
Swelling
in the legs, ankles, and feet (edema)
Swelling
in the abdomen (ascites)
Itchy
skin
Fever
and shivering
Blood
in vomit or stools
Bleeding
and bruising more easily
Confusion or behavior changes
Treatment
Stopping
drinking alcohol can help reverse the damage caused by fatty liver disease and
mild alcoholic hepatitis.
Lifelong abstinence can improve liver function, but
cirrhosis damage is irreversible