Many people enjoy consuming alcohol on an occasional basis, whereas there are some for whom alcohol is a part of their routine life. However, it is necessary to understand the overall impact of alcohol on your liver health.
Even though the liver is a resilient organ, it can only process a certain amount of alcohol before damage occurs. That’s why it is essential to be aware of the early signs of liver damage if you consume alcohol regularly.
Dr Vivek Vij, the best liver surgeon in India, states that understanding the signs can help you take the right steps before it’s too late! We will explore how alcohol impacts your liver health, the early signs of damage and the importance of connecting with a specialist.
The primary job of our liver is to filter out the toxins from our bloodstream, and it includes alcohol also. But, here’s the thing! Your liver has to work extra hard to keep things intact inside your body when you overdrink. It can have serious consequences on your liver health.
Chronic alcohol use can cause inflammation and scarring in the liver. Over time, this leads to conditions like fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis. It can be difficult to reverse the liver damage once it starts to set in, especially if it is left untreated.
But there is no need for you to press the panic button yet, as the liver damage can often be managed or reversed with the right care. All it requires is the early detection of the signs of liver failure before it’s too late!
It is crucial to recognise the early signs of liver damage from alcohol. The symptoms can be subtle at first, but they shouldn’t be ignored. If you experience any of the following signs, it may be time to consult with Dr Vivek Vij and his team.
Constant fatigue is one of the earliest signs of liver issues. Our liver is entrusted with the responsibility of detoxifying our body and producing energy. You might feel weak and exhausted even after taking a full night’s sleep.
This is the very first sign of liver failure, and the persistent tiredness is a symptom of the same.
You might experience discomfort or pain in the abdomen, especially in the upper side where the liver is located. You might also notice swelling or bloating. The condition is referred to as ascites.
This happens when fluids start building up in the abdomen because of liver dysfunction. Don’t ignore the pain or swelling in the liver, as it is a sign of the fact that your liver is struggling to perform its functions.
Dr Vivek Vij, the best liver surgeon in Delhi, states that jaundice or yellowing of eyes or skin is the hallmark sign of liver problems. This happens when the liver struggles to produce bilirubin, a byproduct of red blood cell breakdown.
You will notice a yellowish tint in your body when bilirubin starts accumulating in the body. That’s why you must immediately seek medical attention if you notice yellowing of your skin or eyes.
The toxin buildup in the body due to liver damage can cause vomiting or nausea. The toxins start affecting your digestive system as your liver struggles to filter out the toxins from the body.
Frequent nausea and vomiting are signs that show that your liver is under stress.
Changes in your urine and stool color are also critical indicators of liver issues. Dark, tea-coloured urine could mean your liver isn’t processing bilirubin correctly, while pale stools indicate a lack of bile. Both are signs of liver dysfunction and should be addressed immediately by a doctor.
Dr Vij, renowned for laparoscopic liver transplant in India, states that it is easy to prevent liver damage rather than reversing the symptoms. All you need to do is make some simple lifestyle changes to protect your liver.
Moderation is the key to successful liver health. You must try to stick to the recommended limits of alcohol consumption. The prescribed level for women is 1 glass and for men it is 2 glasses.
Consuming a balanced diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains is essential as it helps support liver function. Avoid consuming processed and fatty foods as they increase strain on the liver.
Physical activity is important for maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of fatty liver disease, which can occur even without alcohol consumption.
Our smoking habit can worsen our liver damage, especially with our daily alcohol consumption. It is the ideal time to quit smoking as it helps improve your liver health and overall well-being.
Dr Vivek and his team, the best doctor for liver in India, state that liver damage caused by alcohol consumption is a serious issue. However, there is nothing to worry about as the issue can be easily prevented.
You can protect the liver from further damage by recognising the early signs, making healthy lifestyle choices, and seeking medical help when needed. Don’t hesitate to connect with our team if you suspect liver problems. Early intervention could make all the difference in your treatment and recovery.
Can liver damage from alcohol be reversed?
In the early stages, liver damage may be reversible with lifestyle changes and medical treatment. However, in advanced cases like cirrhosis, the damage may be irreversible.
Who is the best liver surgeon in India?
Dr Vivek Vij is the leading liver surgeon in India, and he boasts years of experience in treating patients suffering from liver-related problems.
How do I know if I have liver failure?
Signs of liver failure include jaundice, confusion, swelling in the abdomen, and severe fatigue. If you experience these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately.
How long does it take for alcohol to damage the liver?
Liver damage does not happen overnight. It often results from years of excessive drinking. However, even moderate drinking over an extended period can lead to liver issues.
What is a laparoscopic liver transplant?
Laparoscopic liver transplant is a minimally invasive procedure that involves transplanting a healthy liver from a donor. It offers faster recovery and less pain than traditional surgery.
