Liver function concerning alcohol consumption

Dear Ask The Doctor: Hi, I've been getting an uncomfortable pressure below my diaphram that can be quite severe. It only happens after a night of drinking during the "hangover" phase the next day. It lasts for 4-36 hours and the severity is in proportion to amount I drink. I'm not a heavy drinker. Probably average for someone in their early 20s. Rather healthy otherwise. Quitting drinking isn't really a problem or a concern if I must. I'm just wondering if I've potentially done severe damage and what I must do. Even if it's vitamin supplements to help promote regeneration and health. Thanks in advance.

Dear Ben: As a physician, it is good to see that you are concerned for your health and would take the steps to correct the problem. Binge drinking is never recommended and the symptoms you feel are due to the reflux of the acid contents of your stomach into the esophagus.

Alcohol is toxic to all the organ system in the body but much of the brunt is on the liver where it is metabolised. The first signs of liver damage are fatty deposits which then progresses to scarring of the liver tissues and cirrhosis. You may be able to reverse the fatty deposit changes if you stop drinking alcohol but once cirrhosis has occurred, there is little treatment available.

Your present symptoms may be relieved on taking over the counter antacids and plenty of oral fluids. Taking vitamins may help in regenerating the body supply of B12, once you've stopped drinking. I hope this answers your question.