Can heavy alcohol consumption cause a potential liver disease?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 32-year-old female, and I have been drinking heavily, around 8 to 12 units per day, for the past six years. I recently had some bloodwork done and am concerned about the results. My lab results indicate that my leukocytes are 9.6, neutrophilocytes are 6.31, GGT is 52 u/l, B12 vitamin is 158, and Vitamin D is 39 ng/mL. Everything else seems to be normal, including other liver enzymes. I am also overweight, with a height of five feet five inches and a weight of 191 pounds. My doctor is unaware of my drinking problem, but I have decided to quit drinking altogether. I see this as a wake-up call, and I am terrified of liver disease and whether it can be treated. I know I have to wait to hear what my doctor thinks, but I wanted to get your opinion on these test results. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concern.

I have thoroughly reviewed your case history and the attached files (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity). Here are my observations and recommendations:

Your alcohol consumption level is relatively high, and I suggest you consider reducing or discontinuing it. The positive aspect of alcohol-induced liver damage is that it is reversible when alcohol consumption ceases.
Your body weight is above the healthy range, putting you at risk of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. To address this, I suggest adopting a healthier lifestyle, including avoiding excess calories from high-carbohydrate and high-fat foods, incorporating regular physical activity like walking, and gradually reducing weight. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is also reversible if addressed early.
Both your vitamin B12 and vitamin D levels are deficient, but these deficiencies can be easily corrected through oral supplements of vitamin B12 and vitamin D.

I understand that this situation serves as a wake-up call. However, please do not worry too much. I am optimistic that your health-related issues can be reversed with strict lifestyle modifications. Additionally, I suggest getting an abdominal ultrasound, which can provide more information, especially regarding the quantity of fat in your liver.

I hope this helps.

Revert in case of other queries.

Thank you.