Alcohol-related Liver Disease
Alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD) is a group of conditions and illnesses that are caused by drinking excessive amounts of alcohol over a long period of time. The three main types of ARLD are alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic hepatitis, and alcoholic cirrhosis.
Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) is the most common form of ARLD, and is caused by the build-up of fat in the liver from excessive alcohol consumption. Symptoms of AFLD can include fatigue, abdominal pain, and weight loss, but many people with AFLD may have no symptoms at all.
Alcoholic Hepatitis
Alcoholic hepatitis is a more serious form of ARLD, and is caused by inflammation of the liver due to excessive alcohol consumption. Symptoms of alcoholic hepatitis can include fatigue, jaundice, abdominal pain, and nausea. If left untreated, alcoholic hepatitis can lead to liver failure and death.
Alcoholic Cirrhosis
Alcoholic cirrhosis is the most serious form of ARLD, and is caused by extensive scarring of the liver due to excessive alcohol consumption. Symptoms of alcoholic cirrhosis can include jaundice, fatigue, nausea, and abdominal pain. If left untreated, cirrhosis can lead to liver failure and death.
The best way to prevent ARLD is to limit alcohol consumption and get regular medical check-ups. If you think you may have ARLD, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.