Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a condition caused by excessive alcohol consumption, leading to progressive liver damage. The disease manifests in stages, beginning with fatty liver (steatosis), which can develop after a short period of heavy drinking. If alcohol intake continues, inflammation of the liver (alcoholic hepatitis) can occur, which may progress to fibrosis and eventually cirrhosis, characterized by severe scarring and impaired liver function. Symptoms of ALD can range from mild, such as fatigue and abdominal discomfort, to severe, including jaundice, swelling, and bleeding. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical; abstaining from alcohol is the most effective treatment, which can halt or even reverse the progression of the disease.
