Alcoholism is a disease that has detrimental physical, psychological and social effects. One of the severe physical effects of excessive alcohol use is scarring of the liver, also called cirrhosis of the liver. According to Medline Plus, alcohol directly causes damage to the liver. Furthermore, malnourishment from inadequate food intake and poor nutrient absorption may result in further liver injury. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported over 13,000 people in the United States died from alcohol-related cirrhosis in 2006.
Common Symptoms
Medline Plus warns symptoms of alcohol-related cirrhosis of the liver usually do not occur until liver disease is advanced. Furthermore, Merck, a pharmaceutical company that publishes manuals for medical professionals, reports that one-third of people affected by cirrhosis of the liver never experience any symptoms at all. When they do, Merck says common symptoms include distention of the abdomen (caused by enlargement of the liver and/or spleen) fatigue, jaundice, appetite loss and/or nausea. Additionally, cirrhosis of the liver may cause fluid to collect in the abdomen. Abdominal pain may occur, accompanied by fever, which may indicate an additional bacterial infection.
Less Common Symptoms
Other less common symptoms as listed by Medline Plus are drastic changes in skin tone and development of breasts in males. Additionally, a person with cirrhosis of the liver may have bloody stools and may vomit blood. The blood in the vomit and stool may appear as dark black particles (resembling coffee grounds).
Psychological Symptoms
Some possible symptoms of alcoholic cirrhosis affect the mental state. Merck offers information about the psychological effects, which include agitation and confusion. Cirrhosis may also cause slowing of movements and feelings of lethargy. These symptoms may have causes unrelated to alcoholic cirrhosis, and their appearance alone does not necessarily indicate liver problems. Medline Plus indicates it's the appearance of one or more common symptoms along with the more rare or psychological symptoms that may indicate liver disease.
