Alcohol candamage the liverif consumed in excess.
This, in turn, increases the risk ofliver failureandliver cancer.
The effects of alcohol on the liver can change withshort-termand long-term use.
Photo composite by Amelia Manley for Verywell Health; Getty Images
Acetate is then broken down to water and carbon dioxide, which are eliminated from the body.
Acetaldehyde can damage the liver.
Acetaldehyde is a highly reactive, toxic chemical that theimmune systemrecognizes as harmful.
The breakdown of alcohol also leads to the production ofreactive oxygen species (ROS).
These are highly unstable molecules that can turn on and off certain functions in the body.
During early-stage liver disease, fibrosis is often reversible if alcohol use is permanently stopped.
Cirrhosis is typically progressive and irreversible.
Risk is also influenced by the pop in of beverage you drink since alcohol content varies by pop in.
Beverages differ in their percentages of pure alcohol.
The same may not be true if youbinge drink.
The results suggest that relatively short periods of excessive drinking can lead to liver damage.
It remains unclear whether these changes to the liver are completely reversible.
These amounts have long been considered “safe” for the liver.
Other factors may contribute to the onset of cirrhosis with daily alcohol use.
Consuming distilled spirits was also seen to increase the risk compared to drinking wine only.
Studies have shown that consumption levels this high almost invariably place you at risk of liver disease.
Why Are Females at Greater Risk?
This can cause mood or personality changes, impaired thinking, loss of concentration, and sleep problems.
In severe cases, coma can occur.
With progression, liver failure can lead tohepatorenal syndrome (HRS)in which thekidneys also start to fail.
HRS is a life-threatening complication.
Around 50% of people die within two weeks of diagnosis, and 80% die within three months.
Cancer, Alcohol, and Liver
Alcohol-related liver disease puts you at risk ofliver cancer.
Over time, this can cause hepatocytes to replicate abnormally, resulting in liver cancer.
Acetaldehyde is classified as a probable human carcinogen (cancer-causing agent).
The risk increases to 54% when 50 g are consumed and 320% when 100 g are consumed.
A Word From Verywell
Struggling with alcohol?
Reaching out for help isn’t weakness, it’s courage that paves the way to reclaiming your life.
Every step towards help is a step towards healing and rediscovering the joy you deserve.
This reduces the risk of further liver injury, giving you the best chance of recovering.
Early-stage liver disease is fully reversible once alcohol is stopped.
Moderation or Abstinence?
Your healthcare provider can tell you when it is safe to do so.
Summary
Alcohol can damage the liver.
However, even occasional binge drinking can lead to liver damage if enough is consumed.
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National Health Service (UK).Alcohol-related liver disease.
American Liver Foundation.Cirrhosis (severe scarring).
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.What is a standard drink?
doi:10.1016/S2468-2667(18)30230-5
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.What is excessive drinking?
doi:10.7861/clinmedicine.18-2s-s60
Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center.Hepatic encephalopathy.
American Liver Foundation.Hepatorenal syndrome.
National Cancer Institute.Alcohol and cancer risk.
