Alcoholic hepatitis (AH) is an inflammation of the liver caused by habitual alcohol abuse. After 10 to 20 years of moderate to severe drinking, individuals may develop AH, along with other alcohol-related medical conditions. Most are diagnosed between the ages of 40 and 60, after doing irreversible damage to their liver. Unfortunately, nearly half of all people diagnosed with severe AH will die within a month of receiving their diagnosis. This makes prevention a crucial aspect of Alcoholic Hepatitis education.
The liver, while capable of processing about one drink per hour, starts to build up an excess of fat in its cells when flooded with too much alcohol. This inhibits its ability to filter toxins, and eventually, their residue hardens the liver’s tissues and scars it. The growth of these symptoms can cause a wide range of other effects within the body. There are no specific scans or tests for AH; it has to be observed within the patient. Be on the lookout for potential symptoms which are listed below; this can help you know when to seek proper medical attention.
Loss of Appetite
The loss of appetite may not seem like a concern compared with other symptoms but can point to more serious underlying issues. Oftentimes, patients with alcoholic hepatitis lose their appetite by maintaining a poor diet and, coupled with the overconsumption of alcohol, this can lead to malnourishment. A malnourished individual lacks the essential vitamins, minerals, fats, proteins, and fibers to function normally.
Nausea or Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are symptoms commonly mistaken for the usual side effects of being drunk. However, when alcoholic hepatitis progresses to the point of chronic (long-term) nausea or a persistent feeling of being unwell, it is time to speak with a medical professional. Anti-nausea medications can treat the symptoms, but full recovery requires the treatment of the underlying disease.
Low-Grade Fever
Alcoholic hepatitis may cause a mild fever, but an increased temperature should also be a catalyst for tests to detect infection. When the liver isn’t working correctly, the body is more susceptible to infection. The symptoms of a fever can be treated, but treatment generally targets the infection or cause of the fever.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break the dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addiction and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
