Alcoholism and cirrhosis of the liver are often closely associated with one another. However, unlike dual diagnosis conditions such as addiction and bipolar disorder, cirrhosis is often caused directly by alcoholism and can be prevented merely by not drinking
Alcoholism and cirrhosis of the liver are often closely associated with one another. However, unlike dual diagnosis conditions such as addiction and bipolar disorder, cirrhosis is often caused directly by alcoholism and can be prevented merely by not drinking as much. Unfortunately, the nature of the disease of alcoholism can make it nearly impossible for some people to stop abusing alcohol – even in the face of a condition as serious as cirrhosis of the liver. And because the consequences of continued drinking and cirrhosis can lead to death, understanding the relationship between these two grave illnesses is imperative in order to help those who cannot help themselves.
Cirrhosis of the liver is generally associated with heavy drinkers, but there are a number of other causes of this disease, including viruses, blood disorders and other conditions. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse;
“In the United States, heavy alcohol consumption and chronic hepatitis C have been the most common causes of cirrhosis. Obesity is becoming a common cause of cirrhosis, either as the sole cause or in combination with alcohol, hepatitis C, or both. Many people with cirrhosis have more than one cause of liver damage. Cirrhosis is not caused by trauma to the liver or other acute, or short-term, causes of damage. Usually years of chronic injury are required to cause cirrhosis.” (1)
The final sentence in the preceding quote is a poignant reminder that when an alcoholic is suffering from end-stage cirrhosis, it is likely that by that point they have been drinking heavily for many years. However, neither alcoholism nor cirrhosis fit into a standardized set of symptoms and clinical cases can vary considerably from person to person. This can make identification difficult for both diseases – especially considering that a primary feature of alcoholism is a persistent state of denial in the afflicted person.
The U.S. National Library of Medicine points out that there are a number of variables that determine when cirrhosis sets in, how quickly it progresses and who is at most risk;
Other important factors include:
- Alcoholic liver disease may be more common in some families
- This disease does not occur in all heavy drinkers
- You do not have to get drunk for the disease to develop
- Women may be more susceptible than men
- People who drink too much, too often do not get enough healthy foods and nutrients. Poor nutrition may make liver disease worse.” (2)
Despite the serious risks associated with cirrhosis of th