Alcoholic Liver Disease is a condition of the liver that is caused by the overconsumption of alcohol. When one consumes any type of alcohol, the liver breaks down the substance. When this happens, a toxin is released. If there is too much of this toxin in the liver, it can ultimately cause inflammation and scarring and ultimately make the liver shut down. There are four general types of Alcoholic Liver Disease:
- Fatty Liver Disease: Due to the heavy consumption of alcohol, liver cells become less efficient or stop working altogether at breaking down fat, one of the functions of the liver. When this happens, excess fat builds up around the liver causing the disease.
- Acute Alcoholic Hepatitis: Excessive alcohol use can cause Acute Alcoholic Hepatitis where the liver becomes inflamed and swollen, causing it to function less efficiently. This condition can begin even after as little as 5 or more drinks (binge drinking) in one sitting.
- Alcoholic Liver Fibrosis: At this stage of the disease, due to the continuous decline of normal liver function, the liver ceases to break down certain proteins and they begin to build up. If the fibrosis is not abated, then this could ultimately cause liver cancer.
- Cirrhosis of the liver: This is the last and most serious stage of Alcoholic Liver Disease. In this stage, the liver may become permanently scarred from the excessive use of alcohol. If not treated, the liver will basically stop functioning, causing death.
The symptoms of Alcoholic Liver Disease are varied. The early symptoms can be general symptoms and may be missed. The early symptoms are lack of energy, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea and unexplained weight loss.
The long-term symptoms can be more severe, including jaundice (yellow) skin, fluid build up in the legs and abdomen, redness of the hands and palms and excessive bruising.
Alcoholic Liver Disease can occur in both men and women and is more commonly seen in individuals who are between 40 and 50 years old. The disease is more prevalent in men. However, the disease can occur in women more easily, with less alcohol consumption.
The first steps in stopping and reversing the effects of Alcoholic Liver Disease is to stop the overconsumption of alcohol. Being addicted to alcohol is a horrible thing, especially when you have all the ill-effects of what it does to your body. We at Asana Recovery understand stopping the use of alcohol is no easy task and is very difficult to do alone. But with the right recovery team in place, your treatment and counseling will help you succeed in stopping the use of alcohol.
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.
