There are a number of diseases associated with alcohol-related liver damage. This includes the accumulation of fat and scarring in the liver (cirrhosis of the liver). They usually do not cause any symptoms until very advanced stages.
First of all, the liver becomes very fatty due to alcohol. This oil causes inflammation. In response, the organ tries to heal itself by creating scar tissue. If this is left untreated, the entire liver can turn into a network of scars with small “healthy” islets between them, meaning cirrhosis can occur.
In later stages, when the liver has already failed, people begin to turn yellow, swell, experience lethargy and confusion.
But there is also good news. For those suffering from fatty liver disease, within two to three weeks after quitting alcohol the liver may recover and look and function like new.
People with liver inflammation or mild scarring experience a noticeable reduction in liver fat, inflammation, and scarring a week after quitting alcohol. In this case, the liver can return to a completely normal state within a few months.
In heavy drinkers with more severe scarring or liver failure, quitting alcohol for several years reduces the likelihood of worsening liver failure symptoms as well as the risk of death. However, heavy drinkers may have a physical dependence on alcohol and experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop suddenly.
News materials cannot be equated with a doctor’s prescription. Consult an expert before making a decision.
Source: Ferra
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