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Alcoholic hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver, which causes damage and destruction of the liver cells. People who drink alcohol heavily are at high risk of developing alcoholic hepatitis. However, people who drink moderately or those who binge once in a while can also develop alcoholic hepatitis.
Quitting alcohol can help in the reversal of the disease. But, if the drinking is continued, it may lead to cirrhosis (damage to the liver) and liver failure.
Alcohol Hepatitis Symptoms:
In the initial stages, the person with alcohol hepatitis may not have problems. However, as the disease progresses, the following symptoms are seen:
- Poor appetite
- Abdominal tenderness and pain
- Fluid build up in the abdomen (ascites)
- Fever
- Yellowing of the skin and white portion of the eyes (jaundice)
- Fatigue
- Vomiting of blood
Causes of Alcoholic Hepatitis:
Alcohol hepatitis is caused due to the alcohol damage to the liver. Toxic chemicals are produced when the liver breaks down the ethanol present in alcohol. These chemicals trigger the inflammation of the liver cells and damage them.
People who binge drink and, in some cases, those who drink moderately may get alcoholic hepatitis. Women, people with other forms of hepatitis, malnourished individuals – are at risk of alcoholic hepatitis. Certain genetic factors are also believed to contribute towards this disease.
Alcoholic Hepatitis Treatment:
A doctor may conduct blood tests, ultrasound test, or may take a liver biopsy to diagnose alcoholic hepatitis. Once diagnosed , the treatment plans may include:
- Complete abstinence from alcohol
- High nutrient diet which can help in regeneration of liver cells
- Corticosteroids may be used as a short-term treatment to reduce inflammation
- Quitting smoking
- Liver transplant
In cases where the liver damage is irreversible, a liver transplant may be recommended.
The best way to manange alcoholic hepatitis is stop drinking completely. One can achieve this through conselling and therapy to quit alcohol.
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