Fatty liver and alcohol: why does alcohol damage the liver? | The doctor

2023-04-29 05:53:49

What is the connection between alcohol and liver problems? How does alcohol damage liver function? The fatty liver phenomenon has become particularly common. How are fatty liver and alcohol related? Why does alcohol damage the liver? Is fatty liver reversible? Can the damage caused to the fatty liver be reversed?

Are fatty liver and alcohol related? Does drinking alcohol cause fatty liver? Why does alcohol damage the liver and cause this? Indeed, alcohol consumption can cause fatty liver. This fatty liver disease is also known as alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD). When alcohol is consumed, the liver processes it and turns it into energy. However, if you consume alcohol in large or regular amounts, the liver may become overwhelmed and store the extra energy as fat.

Fatty liver and alcohol. Photo: Pixabay congerdesign

This often leads to the accumulation of fat in the liver cells. This phenomenon sometimes leads to inflammation and damage to the liver, which leads to fatty liver disease. After the disease is more advanced, the liver begins to scar. That means scars are formed in him at an increasing level. Some patients will also develop cirrhosis of the liver. And among those who develop cirrhosis of the liver, liver cancer may develop with a relatively high probability.

Fatty liver and alcohol

Is fatty liver reversible? Is it possible to reverse the situation and cure fatty liver? In advanced stages of fatty liver, scarring occurs in the cells, which is irreversible damage. However, in the early stages of fatty liver disease, it is possible to reverse the condition of fatty liver and it is a reversible and curable condition at this stage.

It is important to note that not everyone who drinks alcohol will develop fatty liver disease, and the severity of the condition may vary depending on factors such as the amount and duration of alcohol consumption, genetics and other health conditions. The best way to prevent fatty liver disease is to limit or completely avoid alcohol consumption, and maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet and regular exercise.

Why does alcohol damage the liver?

Alcohol consumption can have a significant effect on the liver, as the liver is responsible for processing alcohol in the body. Here are some effects of alcohol on the liver:

1. Inflammation: Alcohol consumption can cause inflammation of the liver, which can lead to a condition called alcoholic hepatitis.
2. Fatty liver disease: Drinking alcohol can cause fat to build up in the liver, leading to fatty liver disease.
3. Cirrhosis: Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to cirrhosis, which is a serious condition in which the liver becomes scarred and cannot function properly.
4. Increased risk of liver cancer: Heavy drinking may increase the risk of liver cancer.

As mentioned, the severity of these effects may vary depending on factors such as the amount of alcohol consumed and the duration of the drinking habits. If you consume alcohol regularly, contact your doctor to receive advice and treatment to diagnose the damage and stop it.