Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant with a wide range of long-term side effects, including kidney and liver disease. Treatment options are designed to restore as much normal function to the liver and kidneys as possible.

Types

There are three main types of alcohol-induced liver disease that interfere with the liver's function of filtering for toxins, including fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis and alcoholic cirrhosis. Chronic alcohol consumption also causes kidney damage.

Fatty Liver Treatment

Fatty liver is a reversible condition in which the liver is enlarged from the accumulation of fat within the liver cells. As a result, patients experience upper right abdominal discomfort. Stopping the consumption of alcohol usually improves this condition.

Alcoholic Hepatitis Treatment

Alcoholic hepatitis is the inflammation of the liver. Treatment includes abstaining from alcohol, losing excess weight, anti-inflammatory medication, and nutritional therapy to repair damaged liver cells.

Cirrhosis Treatment

Cirrhosis is characterized by the replacement of healthy liver tissue with nonfunctional scar tissue. Treatment includes stopping the consumption of alcohol, nutritional therapy, and managing related complications. Liver transplants may be necessary in severe cases.

Kidney Treatment

Excessive alcohol prevents the kidney's balance of the body's fluids. Stop consuming alcohol, and reduce protein and fluid intake. Severe problems may require dialysis or a transplant.

Source:

American Liver Foundation: Alcohol-Induced Liver Disease

University of Virginia Health System: Alcohol-Induced Liver Disease

American Association of Kidney Patients: Drinking Alcohol and Your Kidneys