Alcohol-related liver disease
Alcohol-related liver disease (pronounced: al-kuh-hawl reh-lay-ted liv-er dih-zeez) is a range of conditions and associated complications that develop when the liver is damaged due to excessive intake of alcohol.
Etymology
The term "Alcohol-related liver disease" is derived from the English language. "Alcohol" comes from the Arabic "al-kuhl" which means 'the kohl', in reference to the powdered antimony used in alchemy. "Liver" is derived from the Old English "lifer", and "disease" comes from the Old French "desaise", meaning lack of ease.
There are three main types of alcohol-related liver disease:
- Alcoholic hepatitis - This is characterized by inflammation and damage to the liver caused by excessive alcohol consumption over a short period of time. Symptoms may include jaundice, loss of appetite and feeling unwell.
- Alcoholic cirrhosis - This is the most serious type and occurs after years of heavy drinking. The liver damage is permanent and can lead to liver failure and death.
- Alcoholic fatty liver disease - This is the earliest stage of alcohol-related liver disease. The liver becomes fatty due to alcohol consumption, which can lead to inflammation and scarring over time.
Symptoms
Symptoms of alcohol-related liver disease include:
- Jaundice - yellowing of the skin and eyes
- Ascites - accumulation of fluid in the abdomen
- Hepatic encephalopathy - confusion and drowsiness due to liver damage
- Portal hypertension - high blood pressure in the liver
Treatment
Treatment for alcohol-related liver disease involves reducing alcohol intake, managing symptoms and complications, and in severe cases, a Liver transplant may be required.
Prevention
Prevention of alcohol-related liver disease involves responsible drinking, maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise.
See also
This WikiMD.org article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.