What is alcoholic hepatitis?
Alcoholic hepatitis is a serious inflammation of the liver caused by heavy alcohol use. It develops when the liver is repeatedly injured by alcohol and the body mounts an inflammatory response, leading to liver dysfunction. It can range from mild to life-threatening forms and may worsen quickly in some people [1][2].
What causes it, and who is most at risk?
The condition is linked to long-term heavy drinking. Risk increases with:
- Larger and more sustained alcohol intake
- Existing liver damage (such as cirrhosis)
- Ongoing alcohol use leading up to illness [1][2]
What symptoms does alcoholic hepatitis cause?
Symptoms can include:
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Abdominal swelling
- Nausea or vomiting and loss of appetite
- Fever and weakness
- Confusion or sleepiness in more severe cases, related to impaired liver function [1][2]
How is it diagnosed?
Clinicians typically combine:
- A history of significant alcohol consumption
- Blood tests to assess liver inflammation and liver function
- Imaging tests to help rule out other causes
- In some cases, a liver biopsy to confirm the diagnosis [1][2]
How is it treated?
Treatment focuses on stopping alcohol and managing liver inflammation and complications. Depending on severity, care may include:
- Alcohol cessation support
- Medical management of complications from liver failure
- In severe cases, referral to specialist care for additional interventions [1][2]
What are the risks if it’s not treated?
Alcoholic hepatitis can progress to liver failure and can be fatal, especially when it occurs in the setting of continued heavy drinking or advanced liver disease [1][2].
When should someone seek urgent care?
Urgent medical attention is needed if there are signs of serious liver dysfunction, such as jaundice that is worsening, confusion, vomiting blood, black/tarry stools, or severe swelling—particularly in someone with recent heavy alcohol use [1][2].
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Sources
[1] https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/liver-disease/alcoholic-hepatitis
[2] https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol-related-medicatons/alcoholic-hepatitis.html