Early Warning Signs of Alcoholic Liver Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore

Your liver is one of the most hardworking organs in your body. However, excessive alcohol consumption can take a significant toll on its health.

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) develops over time and can progress from mild fatty liver to severe cirrhosis if left untreated. The good news is that early detection with a liver biopsy can make a big difference.

At Gramercy Park Digestive Disease Center, home to a team of top gastroenterologists, we know that recognizing the early warning signs of ALD is critical to protecting your liver. Learn more about indicators that you might need a liver biopsy below.

What Is ALD?

ALD is caused by prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption. It usually progresses in three stages: fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis.

You can sometimes reverse early-stage damage with lifestyle changes and medical intervention. However, the later stages often result in permanent scarring and complications.

Early Warning Signs to Watch For

Many of the early symptoms of ALD can be subtle and easy to overlook. Paying attention to your body and seeking medical attention right away can prevent further damage.

Some of the most common early signs include:

• Fatigue and Weakness: Persistent tiredness or lack of energy.
• Abdominal Discomfort: Pain or a feeling of fullness on the right side of your abdomen.
• Nausea or Loss of Appetite: A general feeling of being unwell after eating.
• Yellowing of the Skin or Eyes (Jaundice): Points to impaired liver function.
• Dark Urine or Pale Stools: Changes in bathroom habits may indicate liver problems.
• Unexplained Weight Loss: Losing weight without trying could be a red flag.

If you notice any of these symptoms, act quickly. Early intervention can prevent further disease progression and improve your quality of life.

Medical professionals may use a liver biopsy to diagnose ALD. Analyzing a small sample of liver tissue can help them identify inflammation, scarring, or fat accumulation caused by alcohol.

Seek Help for ALD in New York, New York

At Gramercy Park Digestive Disease Center, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating liver conditions like ALD. Schedule a consultation today by calling 212-979-3237 for our Park Avenue location or 212-364-7090 for our Bennett Avenue location.