How to Check for Alcoholic Liver Disease

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD), also known as alcohol-related liver disease, typically develops due to long-term and excessive alcohol consumption. To diagnose this condition, doctors rely on a combination of medical history, physical examination, and specific diagnostic tests.

One of the first steps in identifying alcoholic liver disease is to evaluate the patient's alcohol consumption history. A consistent pattern of heavy drinking over several years significantly increases the risk of developing ALD. In addition to this, patients often display typical symptoms of liver dysfunction, such as fatigue, jaundice, abdominal swelling, and unexplained weight loss.

From a clinical perspective, blood tests are crucial in diagnosing alcohol-related liver damage. These tests typically include liver function tests, which measure levels of enzymes and proteins in the blood. Elevated levels of ALT, AST, bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and reduced albumin may all indicate liver impairment.

Imaging studies are also essential tools in the diagnostic process. Among them, a liver ultrasound is most commonly used. This imaging method can reveal abnormal echogenicity in the liver, indicating fatty infiltration or the presence of fibrosis. In more advanced cases, imaging may show signs of cirrhosis, which is a severe and irreversible stage of liver scarring.

In some cases, further diagnostic procedures like a liver biopsy or FibroScan may be recommended to assess the extent of liver damage. Early detection and lifestyle changes, particularly alcohol cessation, can significantly improve outcomes for individuals with alcoholic liver disease.