Alcohol: How Much is Too Much?

Alcohol abuse is on the rise and continues to be a growing problem around the world. Heavy drinkers are at risk of numerous serious health conditions, including high blood pressure, digestive issues, heart disease, and cirrhosis of the liver.

According to a recent study, there was a 21 percent increase in alcoholic liver deaths across the UK in 2020. According to the NHS, heavy drinkers consume at least fourteen units of alcohol per week. If you are a heavy drinker, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms associated with liver disease so you can seek treatment as soon as possible.

Signs That You May Be Drinking Too much

• You have tried to cut down more than once and have been unable to do so — in spite of really wanting to quit.
• Friends and family members have commented on how you are drinking or are concerned.
• You have speeding tickets or have other legal issues because of alcohol use.
• You are experiencing serious signs of health problems from alcohol use, such as liver damage.

What Are the First Signs of Liver Damage From Alcohol?

Excessive alcohol use can cause significant liver damage over the years. The first symptoms of alcohol-related liver disease may be subtle. The primary signs you should look out for include:

• Significant decrease in appetite.
• Swelling in the legs, feet, and abdomen.
• Sudden weight loss.
• Yellow eyes and skin.
• Confusion and persistent feelings of drowsiness.
• Vomiting up blood.
• Pale or discoloured stools.

How Much Do You Have To Drink To Get Liver Damage?

How Many Drinks A Week Will Damage Your Liver?

According to a study conducted in 2019, people who drink more than five drinks per day are at a higher risk of liver damage than those who are light drinkers or abstain altogether. The longer you have lived with excessive drinking, the more likely you are to have liver damage.

Is It Possible To Reverse Liver Damage Caused by Drinking?

Unfortunately, the answer is usually no. However, depending on how advanced a person’s liver disease is, it is possible to reverse some damage by abstaining for two weeks. But, in the long run, damage generally cannot be reversed for those who have advanced liver disease.

Next Steps

If you believe that you may drink too much, it’s a good idea to see your doctor for a referral to an alcohol specialist. By not drinking too much, you can reduce your risk of liver damage and other health problems.

It’s also a good idea to get a liver test to assess your liver functioning if you drink often. A liver function test is quick yet comprehensive and is the best way to find out if you have liver damage. It’s important to get tested so you can take the right steps and seek further treatment if necessary. If you have a problem with alcohol, there is hope.

By seeking professional help and booking a test today, you can take the necessary steps to quit drinking and improve your health.

Sources:

• Alcoholic liver deaths increased by 21% during year of the pandemic – GOV.UK
• Alcohol misuse – NHS
• Alcohol consumption and risk of liver cirrhosis – PMC
• Alcohol-related liver disease – Treatment – NHS