Alcohol-Related Liver Disease (ALD)

Expert Care for Comprehensive Liver Health

What is Alcohol-Related Liver Disease (ALD)?

Alcohol-Related Liver Disease (ALD) is liver damage caused by excessive alcohol consumption. The condition ranges from mild fat accumulation in the liver to severe and life-threatening complications. The three primary stages of ALD are:

• Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: Early stage characterized by fat accumulation in the liver.
• Alcoholic Hepatitis: Inflammation of the liver, which can cause liver damage.
• Alcohol-Related Cirrhosis: Advanced scarring of the liver, leading to impaired liver function.

At Central Gastro, we provide specialized care for ALD, offering diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management to improve liver health and overall well-being.

Symptoms of Alcohol-Related Liver Disease

Symptoms vary depending on the stage of the disease:

Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (Early Stage)

• Often asymptomatic.
• Fatigue or mild abdominal discomfort.

Alcoholic Hepatitis (Moderate Stage):

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Loss of appetite.
• Abdominal pain and tenderness.
• Fever.

Alcohol-Related Cirrhosis (Advanced Stage):

• Swelling in the legs (edema) or abdomen (ascites).
• Easy bruising or bleeding.
• Confusion or memory problems (hepatic encephalopathy).
• Severe fatigue and weakness.
• Weight loss or muscle wasting.

If you experience these symptoms, early intervention is crucial to prevent further liver damage.

Risk Factors for ALD

While excessive alcohol consumption is the primary cause of ALD, other factors may increase the risk:

• Duration and Quantity of Alcohol Use: Chronic heavy drinking over time.
• Gender: Women are at higher risk due to differences in alcohol metabolism.
• Genetics: Family history of liver disease.
• Obesity: May worsen liver damage.
• Other Liver Conditions: Coexisting conditions like hepatitis C.

Complications of Alcohol-Related Liver Disease

If left untreated, ALD can lead to:

• Liver Failure: The liver loses its ability to function properly.
• Portal Hypertension: Increased blood pressure in the veins supplying the liver.
• Varices and Bleeding: Enlarged veins in the esophagus or stomach that may rupture.
• Hepatic Encephalopathy: Toxin buildup in the brain causing confusion or coma.
• Liver Cancer: Increased risk of hepatocellular carcinoma.

Diagnosis of Alcohol-Related Liver Disease

At Central Gastro, we use advanced diagnostic tools to assess liver health and identify the stage of ALD:

• Medical History and Alcohol Use Assessment: To evaluate the extent of alcohol consumption.
• Blood Tests: 
• Imaging Studies: 
  • Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to detect liver enlargement, fat accumulation, or scarring.
  • FibroScan® to assess liver stiffness and fibrosis. (UPLINK)
  • UGAP for Simple Ultrasound based Liver Fat Estimation(UPLINK)
• Liver Biopsy: In selected cases to confirm the extent of liver damage. (UPLINK)

Treatment Options for Alcohol-Related Liver Disease

1. Alcohol Cessation Support
2. Nutritional Therapy
3. Medications
4. Advanced Therapies for Cirrhosis

• Endoscopic Treatment: For bleeding varices or complications of portal hypertension. 
• Liver Transplantation: For eligible patients with end-stage liver disease.

Prevention and Long-Term Management

At Central Gastro, we focus on preventing ALD progression and promoting liver health:

• Regular Monitoring: To assess liver function and track disease progression.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Healthy diet, regular exercise, and alcohol abstinence.
• Preventive Vaccination: Against hepatitis A and B to protect liver health.
• Comprehensive Care: Collaboration with addiction specialists and dietitians for holistic support.

When to Seek Treatment for ALD

If you experience symptoms of liver dysfunction, or if you have a history of heavy alcohol use, contact us for an evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and prevent complications.