What Is Alcoholic Hepatitis?

Alcoholic hepatitis is a condition that happens when heavy alcohol use causes inflammation and damage in the liver. The liver helps remove waste from the body, stores energy, and supports digestion. When it becomes inflamed, it may not work as well as it should.

This condition can range from mild to severe. Some people may have few symptoms at first, while others can become seriously ill if liver damage progresses.

Symptoms

Alcoholic hepatitis develops after long-term alcohol use damages liver cells. The risk may be higher in people who are overweight, poorly nourished, or who smoke.

Common symptoms may include:

• Pain or tenderness in the upper right side of the abdomen
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue or weakness
• Fever
• Weight loss
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
• Swelling in the abdomen or legs
• Confusion or unusual sleepiness in severe cases

In some people, symptoms develop slowly over time. Others may experience a sudden worsening of liver function that requires emergency medical care.

How Is It Diagnosed?

Healthcare providers diagnose alcoholic hepatitis by reviewing your symptoms, medical history, and alcohol use. A physical exam can help identify signs of liver disease.

Testing may include blood work to check liver function and overall health. Imaging studies such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI can provide a closer look at the liver. In some cases, a liver biopsy may be recommended to better understand the amount of inflammation or scarring present.

How Is It Treated?

The most important step in treatment is completely stopping alcohol use. This can help prevent additional liver damage and may allow the liver to heal if the disease is caught early. Many people benefit from counseling, support groups, or treatment programs to help maintain sobriety.

Treatment may also include:

• Nutrition support and vitamin supplements
• Changes to diet to improve overall health
• Medicines to manage inflammation or complications
• Monitoring in the hospital for severe symptoms
• Treatment for related liver problems such as fluid buildup or bleeding

If liver damage becomes severe, a liver transplant may be considered for some patients.

Recovery depends on how much damage has already occurred and whether alcohol use stops. While some inflammation may improve, permanent scarring from cirrhosis cannot be reversed.