Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD) is liver damage caused by long-term, heavy alcohol consumption. It begins with fat accumulation in liver cells (steatosis), can progress to inflammation (alcoholic hepatitis), and ultimately lead to scar tissue (fibrosis) or irreversible cirrhosis. Early detection and alcohol abstinence are key to preventing serious complications.
In its early stages, ALD may cause no noticeable signs. As the disease advances, you may experience:
The primary driver of Alcoholic Liver Disease is chronic alcohol use, but other factors can increase susceptibility:
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The ICD-10 codes for Alcoholic Liver Disease range from K70.0 to K70.9, depending on the specific type and severity of the condition.
Diagnosis of ALD involves blood tests (liver enzymes, bilirubin), liver imaging (ultrasound, CT, or MRI), and a detailed alcohol use history and symptom assessment.
ALD is caused by chronic alcohol consumption, while NAFLD is due to fat buildup in the liver unrelated to alcohol. Both can progress through similar stages of inflammation and scarring.
Yes. Even small amounts of alcohol can increase inflammation, accelerate liver damage, and worsen outcomes in patients with NAFLD.
Yes. NAFLD progresses through steatosis (fatty liver), NASH (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis), fibrosis (scar tissue formation), and ultimately cirrhosis if not managed.
Late-stage ALD may present with abdominal fluid buildup (ascites), mental confusion (hepatic encephalopathy), easy bruising or bleeding, and impaired kidney function.
Spider angiomas occur when liver damage alters hormone metabolism, causing small blood vessels to dilate and appear as red, web-like patterns on the skin.
Yes. Liver dysfunction can lead to the buildup of toxic metabolites, resulting in a characteristic sweet or musty odor on the breath.
Coenzyme Q10 may support mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress in liver cells, but it should be used alongside medical guidance and lifestyle changes, not as a sole treatment.
Seek a board-certified gastroenterologist or hepatologist at a reputable liver center like GastroDoxs. Check patient reviews, verify their liver care expertise, and ensure they offer comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services.
