Alcoholic hepatitis

ARTICLE SECTIONS

Definition
Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors
Complications

Preparing for your appointment
Tests and diagnosis
Treatments and drugs
Prevention

Definition

Alcohol has long been associated with serious liver diseases such as hepatitis — an inflammation of the liver. But the relationship between drinking and alcoholic hepatitis is complex. Not all heavy drinkers develop alcoholic hepatitis, and the disease can occur in people who drink only moderately or binge just once.

Though damage from alcoholic hepatitis often can be reversed if you stop drinking, the disease is likely to progress to cirrhosis and liver failure if you don't.

The exact reason alcoholic hepatitis develops isn't known. What's clear is that if you have alcoholic hepatitis you'll need to avoid alcohol and other substances that harm your liver. For some people with severe liver damage, a liver transplant may be an option.

Symptoms