Alcoholic Hepatitis Overview and Diagnosis
Know what alcohol hepatitis is, symptoms, causes, diagnosis and treatment options. Learn about the management of disease and liver health.
Written by Dr. Dhankecha Mayank Dineshbhai
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 25th Aug, 2025
Introduction
Alcoholic hepatitis is a serious liver condition caused by excessive alcohol consumption over a long period. It leads to inflammation and damage to the liver, which can be life-threatening if not addressed in time. If you or someone you know drinks alcohol regularly, it’s important to understand this condition, its symptoms, and how it is diagnosed.
What is Alcoholic Hepatitis?
Alcoholic hepatitis occurs when the liver becomes inflamed due to prolonged alcohol abuse. The liver plays a crucial role in filtering toxins from the body, but excessive alcohol can overwhelm it, leading to swelling, scarring (cirrhosis), and even liver failure.
This condition can develop in people who drink heavily for years, but in some cases, even short-term binge drinking can trigger it. Not everyone who drinks heavily will develop alcoholic hepatitis, but the risk increases with the amount and duration of alcohol consumption.
Consult General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
Symptoms of Alcoholic Hepatitis
The symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some common signs include:
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Fatigue and weakness
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal pain and swelling
- Fever
- Dark urine and pale stools
In severe cases, alcoholic hepatitis can lead to complications like liver failure, internal bleeding, or confusion due to
toxin buildup in the brain (hepatic encephalopathy).
What Causes Alcoholic Hepatitis?
The primary cause is excessive alcohol intake. However, certain factors increase the risk:
- Heavy drinking (more than 3-4 drinks per day for men, 2-3 for women)
- Long-term alcohol use (years of regular drinking)
- Genetic factors (some people are more prone to liver damage)
- Malnutrition (alcohol interferes with nutrient absorption)
- Existing liver disease (like fatty liver or hepatitis C)
How is Alcoholic Hepatitis Diagnosed?
If you experience symptoms or have a history of heavy drinking, your doctor may recommend the following tests:
- Blood Tests – To check liver enzymes (AST, ALT), bilirubin levels, and signs of inflammation.
- Liver Function Tests (LFTs) – To assess how well your liver is working.
- Ultrasound or CT Scan – To detect liver swelling, fat buildup, or scarring.
- Liver Biopsy (in some cases) – A small tissue sample is taken to confirm the extent of damage.
Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent further liver damage. If you suspect you may have alcoholic hepatitis, it’s important to consult a doctor immediately.
Managing Alcoholic Hepatitis
The most critical step is stopping alcohol consumption completely. Continued drinking worsens the condition and can lead to irreversible damage. Other ways to support liver health include:
- Healthy Diet – Eat foods rich in vitamins, proteins, and antioxidants. Avoid fatty, processed foods.
- Hydration – Drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins.
- Medications – In severe cases, doctors may prescribe steroids or other treatments to reduce inflammation.
- Medical Supervision – Regular check-ups are essential to monitor liver function.
When to Seek Help?
If you or a loved one struggles with alcohol addiction, seeking medical and psychological support is vital. Apollo 24|7 offers expert consultations and liver function tests to help diagnose and manage alcoholic hepatitis. You can book a test or speak to a specialist for personalised advice.
Final Thoughts
Alcoholic hepatitis is a preventable and treatable condition if addressed early. The best way to protect your liver is to limit alcohol intake or quit altogether. If you notice any symptoms, don’t ignore them. Early intervention can save your liver and your life.
Consult General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
Consult General Practitioner for Personalised Advice
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Dr. Gaddam Manoj
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Aaradhya clinic, Hyderabad
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Critical Care Specialist
12 Years • MBBS, MD, FNB (CRITICAL CARE MEDICINE), EDIC
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