Sitting in the right side of the torso behind the ribs, the liver is one of the largest organs in the body. Its primary role is converting food and beverages into nutrients the body can easily absorb and utilize. It also filters harmful toxins and poisons, including alcohol, to eventually excrete it from the body. Ironically, the same alcohol that the liver breaks down and removes can damage the organ, mainly when used excessively for longer durations, leading to a condition called alcoholic hepatitis.

Alcoholic hepatitis describes an inflammatory liver condition triggered by heavy alcohol use for extended durations. As a toxin, alcohol directly targets the liver cells, causing scarring and swelling while decreasing the overall functions associated with the organ. If unmanaged, the condition can rapidly progress and become complicated, leading to serious consequences. Understanding what alcohol hepatitis is, how it develops, and how to treat or prevent is essential to save lives.

Alcoholic Hepatitis Causes and Risk Factors

As mentioned by name, the primary cause of alcoholic hepatitis is heavy drinking for longer durations. The constant process of breaking down heavy amounts of alcohol, more than what the liver can handle, can cause its cells to inflame and eventually get harmed. The liver responds by forming scar tissue to replace these damaged cells, but with time, the scar tissue may also start replacing functional liver tissue. Consequently, the functioning of the liver takes a hit, leading to a host of complications. When the process continues for some time, the scarring becomes irreversible, a stage called cirrhosis. Once cirrhosis develops, it can quickly cause the liver to fail. A failing liver often interferes with the blood flow to the kidneys, perpetuating a cycle of multiorgan failure.

In addition to alcohol, multiple other factors also contribute to the development of alcoholic hepatitis. Hepatitis C alcoholism is one of these causes where a person diagnosed with hepatitis C can end up developing alcoholic hepatitis due to a high risk. To avoid this complication, people with hepatitis C are strictly advised to abstain from alcohol.

Malnutrition is a common element in alcoholic hepatitis. Many people struggling with this disorder also complain of appetite suppression, and alcohol may become the primary source of calories for them, which only worsens malnutrition. This malnutrition can also contribute to the development and progression of alcoholic hepatitis.

Other risk factors associated with alcoholic hepatitis include the following:

• Individuals assigned female sex at birth are at a higher risk of acquiring alcoholic hepatitis [1]
• Obesity or high BMI
• Certain genetic factors, such as history of liver disease in the family
• Ethnicity and race, as Hispanic and African American people are more likely to develop alcoholic hepatitis [2]

Symptoms of Alcoholic Hepatitis Explained

The symptoms of alcoholic hepatitis can differ, depending on the extent of damage in the liver. People with mild levels of damage may not develop any symptoms until the damage progresses to a more significant stage. When this happens, the following symptoms may occur:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Changes in appetite
• Fever
• Swelling or pain in the abdomen
• Jaundice, a condition where eyes and skin turn yellow
• Weight loss
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Changes in the mental status, confusing

The symptoms of hepatitis may resemble those caused by other health issues. People who develop them must consult a doctor to determine the actual cause and commence treatment immediately.

Diagnosing Alcoholic Hepatitis

People who present with symptoms of alcoholic hepatitis undergo an extensive history-taking session where a healthcare professional asks them about their alcohol consumption and overall health as a whole. They may also investigate to check if there is any free fluid in the abdomen or the liver or spleen enlargement.

To support the diagnosis, the following tests are often performed:

• Full blood count
• Blood clotting tests
• Liver function tests
• Ultrasound of the liver
• Abdominal CT scan

In some cases, a liver biopsy may be indicated to confirm the diagnosis. The process involves removing a small tissue sample from the liver and analyzing it under the microscope for any abnormal changes. A liver biopsy is an invasive procedure and comes with certain risks; however, the results can indicate the type and severity of the liver condition very accurately.

Managing Alcoholic Hepatitis

Alcohol can not only cause alcoholic hepatitis but also worsen it. Hence, the first tip to manage this condition is to abstain from alcohol. Quitting drinking can significantly manage symptoms while reducing further damage to the liver. In the early stages of alcoholic hepatitis, abstinence may even reverse the damage. However, when the damage progresses, the condition slowly becomes permanent with no chance of reversibility.

However, this does not mean that people with permanent liver damage can continue drinking with no repercussions. According to research, those with permanent damage to the liver who continue drinking experience a 30 percent decrease in the survival rate compared to those who stop drinking. [3] In addition to abstinence, the following treatment options may also be offered:

• Medications: In some cases, medications like pentoxifylline may be prescribed to reduce liver inflammation while improving its function. Some studies have also found baclofen effective in helping people with liver disease reduce their drinking habits and maintain sobriety. [4] However, the medication does not have FDA approval to be used for this purpose so far.
• Nutritional Supplements: People with alcoholic hepatitis are often nutritionally compromised, which only worsens their health. A doctor may recommend using supplements to improve the malnutrition status. If oral intake is not enough, a feeding tube may be passed to supplement the current eating regime through nutrient-rich liquids that go into the digestive system through this tube.
• Liver Transplant: A transplant becomes necessary when the damage is advanced and irreversible. An abstinence period of at least six months is required to qualify for this process.
• Counseling: Doctors often recommend counseling as a part of alcoholic hepatitis treatment to support and improve emotional well-being. Moreover, it also helps patients learn new coping skills to manage daily stressors while reducing alcohol cravings.

Why is Alcoholic Hepatitis Treatment Necessary? The Complications Explained

If untreated, alcoholic hepatitis may lead to severe and lasting liver damage, which, in turn, may cause serious complications. Some of these complications may become serious, leading to alcoholic hepatitis death.

Liver Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis occurs when the scar tissue permanently forms instead of the healthy tissue in the liver. This affects the overall liver functions, causing it to fail eventually. Liver cirrhosis also increases the risk of acquiring liver cancer.

Esophageal Bleeding

Excessive scar tissue formed in the liver often slows down the blood flow, increasing the overall blood pressure within the organ while reducing resilience and strength in the surrounding blood vessels of the stomach and esophagus. With excessive pressure buildup, these vessels swell and burst, leading to internal bleeding.

Ascites

This condition causes fluid to accumulate in the abdomen, making it tender and swollen. The condition can be excruciating and uncomfortable, often interfering with normal breathing.

Spontaneous Bacterial Peritonitis

The fluid that builds up in the abdomen may get infected, leading to spontaneous bacterial peritonitis or SBP. SBP is a medical emergency and warrants immediate treatment to save lives.

Hepatic Encephalopathy

This complication occurs when the toxins normally filtered out by the liver start piling up in the blood due to reduced hepatic function. These toxins eventually reach the brain and cause confusion, irritability, and even coma.

Organ Failure

With time, the damage to the liver may start affecting other organs, such as the kidneys, triggering multiorgan failure.

Other Complications

Other complications of alcoholic hepatitis include the following:

• Issues with blood clotting
• High levels of bilirubin
• Low blood platelet count
• Infection
• Iron overload

FAQs

What is the outlook for alcoholic hepatitis?

The outlook for alcoholic hepatitis is dependent on the following three factors:

• The extent of damage to the liver
• The severity of current symptoms
• Whether a person has stopped drinking

In general, the outlook is good if the symptoms are mild and a person is slowly working on attaining abstinence. In some cases, mild cases may also be reversed if alcohol abstinence is strictly observed. However, continued drinking can worsen the condition and negatively affect the chances of recovery.

Can you prevent developing alcoholic hepatitis?

The best way to prevent developing alcoholic hepatitis is by avoiding alcohol or limiting its use. Less than two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women is generally considered moderate-level drinking, which is relatively safer for the liver. Additionally, you can also reduce the risk by vaccinating for hepatitis B and hepatitis C, which may spread by sharing needles or through bodily fluids

References

1 Maddur H, Shah VH. Alcohol and liver function in women. Alcohol research: current reviews. 2020;40(2).

2 Levy RE, Catana AM, Durbin‐Johnson B, Halsted CH, Medici V. Ethnic differences in presentation and severity of alcoholic liver disease. Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research. 2015 Mar;39(3):566-74.

3 Fung P, Pyrsopoulos N. Emerging concepts in alcoholic hepatitis. World journal of hepatology. 2017 Apr 4;9(12):567.

4 Mosoni C, Dionisi T, Vassallo GA, Mirijello A, Tarli C, Antonelli M, Sestito L, Rando MM, Tosoni A, De Cosmo S, Gasbarrini A. Baclofen for the treatment of alcohol use disorder in patients with liver cirrhosis: 10 years after the first evidence. Frontiers in Psychiatry. 2018 Oct 1;9:474.

Experts describe personality as a combination of dominant characteristics and persistent behaviors, entailing emotional patterns, interests, and inherent value systems. Each individual is born with a unique personality open to change as they experience life. Despite these ongoing changes, the significant components usually persist through the years.

Alcohol, being a universally accepted and consumed drink, is particularly notorious for causing drastic and quick alterations in certain personalities. While it may not cause any noticeable or significant shifts for each person, some may become completely different compared to when they are not intoxicated. To understand alcoholism and personality changes, it is imperative to know how alcohol affects the brain and how to pick up these changes to initiate timely treatment.

Alcoholism and Personality Changes: How Does Alcohol Affect the Brain?

Understanding how alcohol affects the human brain is necessary before learning how to pick up personality changes in alcoholics. Alcohol is a depressant of the central nervous system, which means that it can inhibit neural activity. Its short-term use can reduce anxiety and inhibitions while promoting feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Chronic alcohol abuse, on the other hand, damages neurons, specifically in the prefrontal cortex area, which controls planning, emotional regulation, and judgment.

These impacts on the brain’s anatomical structures dampen executive functions while reducing the efficacy with which its reward system functions. For compensation, the brain becomes dependent on alcohol to trigger dopamine release. Dopamine is a key neurotransmitter in the brain responsible for pleasure, motivation, and reinforcement of behaviors that lead to rewards. As time goes by, this dependency disrupts self-control, making it difficult for a drinker to regulate mood or handle stress without using alcohol.

At this point, it becomes evident that alcohol changes personality as most people start noticing both obvious and less obvious signs of an alcohol addict, such as compulsive behaviors, impulsiveness, and instability. Research has found that alcohol reduces executive functioning and prefrontal activity, making it more difficult for some people to manage emotional responses in the right way. [1] Moreover, it also causes an imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission in the brain, leading to personality changes.

Understanding the Alcoholic Personality: Short-Term Changes

Short-term personality changes due to alcohol use are primarily due to physical intoxication. These changes can either be behavioral or emotional.

Behavioral Changes in Personality

Behavioral changes are a short-term reaction to alcohol use. This short-term drinking can indicate the start of a more prolonged addiction or may simply be a binge session. Regardless of what commences a short-term drinking session, the following behavioral changes may be seen in the personality:

• Risky behavior: Over time, a person is likely to indulge in more extreme drinking habits. More frequent and heavier binges also put them at risk of brushes with the law, hospitalizations, accidents, relationship breakdowns, losing access to children, and more. A reduced sense of responsibility and a focus on self is at the core of all these problems.
• Promiscuity: Alcohol intake can increase promiscuity, making a person overly sexual. According to the World Health Organization, alcohol use and promiscuity have several patterns, such as using alcohol during initial sexual encounters and perceiving alcohol-serving locations as a place of contact for sexual encounters. Research also suggests a relationship between promiscuity, alcohol use, and a lack of meaning in life. [2]
• Self-Control: Excessive alcohol intake typically reduces self-control, leading to negative consequences.

Emotional Changes In Personality

Following emotional changes are likely to be seen in the personality of a person under acute alcohol intoxication.

• Agreeableness: A study performed in 2018 found that excessive alcohol intake can reduce emotional stability, reduce conscientiousness, and lower agreeableness, regardless of how much a person drinks. [3]
• Motivation: People vulnerable to alcohol are at a higher risk of experiencing motivational behaviors, such as novelty seeking, excitement seeking, and harm avoidance. 
• Depression: The risk of undergoing depression significantly increases with alcohol use, mainly in a way that mutually reinforces each other.
• Violence/Irritability/Anger: Alcohol intake may not be an increased cause of partner violence but can exacerbate it.
• Overconfidence: A drinker is more likely to become overconfident under the influence of alcohol, dismissing others more quickly and feigning confidence in social situations. According to experts, these behaviors typically compensate for their loss of self-worth.
• Emotional Volatility: Drinking alcohol can cause short-term increases in emotional volatility and instability. Any events or conversations that usually seem innocuous may cause extreme reactivity in people under intoxication.

Does Alcohol Change Your Personality Long-Term?

Alcohol is capable of inducing long-term personality changes, which enable the pattern of alcoholism to continue. These long-term changes are typically due to the following:

• Behavioral changes whose purpose is to protect an alcoholic’s access to alcohol
• Emotional changes to act out the behavioral changes
• Physical changes in the neural structures consistent with long-term drinking

Behavioral Changes in Personality

Most of the long-term personality changes in behavior often develop as a means to maintain and sustain alcohol addiction over time. Some of these traits are acquired as a pain to escape pain without wanting to inflict pain on others. These changes are mostly subtle and work at an unconscious level, and they aim to maintain constant access to alcohol despite bearing negative outcomes.

Behavioral changes that an alcoholic observes in their personality also indicate that they are on the way to developing a dependence. These changes include the following:

• Avoidance: An alcoholic tries their best to avoid all situations and people that are likely to reduce their access to alcohol.
• Broken Promises: Alcoholics frequently make promises they cannot keep to keep up appearances and to make others realize that their drinking habit is under control. Work commitments, household tasks, and school appointments can be missed in an attempt to maintain access to alcohol all the time. Some people also break their promises, such as having one drink daily. 
• Change of Peers: As drinking habits become long-term, an alcoholic typically changes their peer group to include people who support their active addiction broadly.
• Denial: Admitting that they have an addiction can threaten a long-term alcoholic’s excess to alcohol, their only coping mechanism. Hence, such people commonly resort to denial, which helps them continue drinking without admitting it.

• Making Excuses: Alcohol can make a previously punctual person change behavior. For instance, they may become more forgetful, miss work meetings, forget to spend time with family, and constantly make excuses for their oversights.
• Blaming Others: Many alcoholics commonly blame others for the misdeeds they do under intoxication. Because these people have become dependent on alcohol as a means to cope, defending themselves by blaming others seems to protect them and their habits.
• Secrecy: After months or years of drinking, many alcoholics realize that addiction is not helping them or those around them. However, due to a lack of compensatory support, they continue drinking but become more private. They may hide alcohol in specific locations or disappear to an unknown place for long durations without explaining.

Emotional Changes in Personality

The amygdala regulates emotional states inside the brain. This part of the brain is susceptible to changes in a neurotransmitter called GABA. When a person keeps drinking alcohol for a long time, GABA levels fluctuate, leading to the following emotional changes: [4]

• Narcissism: Narcissism due to an alcohol personality includes an increased sense of entitlement, inability to empathize with others, and being mean. These indirect mechanisms protect a person’s ongoing access to coping mechanisms that involve alcohol intake.
•  
• Confusion: Too much alcohol intake for more extended periods causes liver toxicity. As the level of this toxicity increases, the likelihood of delusions heights, leading to emotional symptoms like displacement or confusion.
• Shame: As the cycle of alcohol addiction continues, past misdemeanors and shortcomings occur more frequently. A drinker starts realizing feelings of responsibility, leading to shame. To eradicate this shame, a person is typically likely to increase his alcohol intake.

FAQs

How does binge drinking affect a person’s personality? Does it depict a true personality?

The personality changes experienced by a person under the influence of alcohol are not necessarily a part of their real personality. Personality is defined by who a person is in their usual state, not how they behave under the influence of any mind-altering substance, such as alcohol. The emotions and feelings a person exhibits under alcohol intoxication are a part of their broad spectrum of feelings and may not necessarily depict their core values or character. At the same time, some experts believe that these personality changes are a more actual representation of a person’s internal state.

Can severe personality changes when drinking lead to a personality disorder?

Alcohol consumption does not trigger a personality disorder; however, it may impact its progression by worsening the symptoms and effects. A strong correlation exists between alcohol consumption and certain personality disorders, especially antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). Individuals with ASPD have a much higher rate of alcohol abuse and associated issues than those without this disorder. Moreover, such individuals also exhibit more violent behaviors. Borderline personality disorder, or BPD, is also another personality disorder that shares ties with alcohol abuse. Because people with BPD have an addictive personality, individuals with this disorder often turn to alcohol for symptom relief. Most experts agree that alcohol can worsen personality disorder symptoms, making it difficult for a person to seek treatment.

Can consuming alcohol worsen an already existing personality disorder?

Active alcohol consumption is very likely to negatively interact with pre-existing mental health problems while exacerbating any underlying personality or behavioral changes. People with disorders like schizophrenia, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder are particularly at risk. In such cases, seeking appropriate advice from a mental health professional regarding active management is imperative. Serious consideration must be given to abstinence through professional detoxification and rehabilitation programs.

Is it possible to reverse alcoholic behavior changes?

Most experts believe that personality changes due to alcohol use are reversible if a person achieves long-term abstinence along with the right level of support. Regular therapy under professional cover helps people unlearn the use of alcohol as a coping mechanism. Hence, such people no longer require support from alcohol to deal with everyday struggles. However, individual success outcomes may vary depending on various factors, such as duration and severity of alcohol consumption, severity of personality changes, and how willing a person is to commit to long-term treatment.

References

1 Nutt D, Hayes A, Fonville L, Zafar R, Palmer EO, Paterson L, Lingford-Hughes A. Alcohol and the Brain. Nutrients. 2021 Nov 4;13(11):3938.

2 Nam JS. Predictors of Drug/Alcohol Abuse and Sexual Promiscuity of College Students.

3 Hakulinen C, Jokela M. Alcohol use and personality trait change: pooled analysis of six cohort studies. Psychological Medicine. 2019 Jan;49(2):224-31.

4 Hyytiä P, Koob GF. GABAA receptor antagonism in the extended amygdala decreases ethanol self-administration in rats. European journal of pharmacology. 1995 Sep 5;283(1-3):151-9.

Widely accepted across the world as a pleasurable drink, alcohol is a toxin that greatly distresses the body and can activate a defensive reaction as soon as the first sip hits the tongue. It can also lower the natural defenses, and despite being strongly associated with relaxation, the beverage can wreak havoc on the overall functionality. Even a person with an excellent immune system finds it difficult to escape the effects of drink. For someone battling an autoimmune disease, the impact is not only more intense but also prolonged, typically lasting days and even weeks after a drink.

So far, scientists have discovered more than 80 different types of autoimmune diseases. Some, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis, can have widespread effects on the body, whereas others, like psoriasis and diabetes type 1, are more specific. Carefully balancing diet, lifestyle, and medication is crucial for such people to keep the disease in check and lead a healthy life. The relationship between alcohol and autoimmune disease is critical to understand, as alcohol carries the potential to trigger these illnesses, some more than others.

What is an Autoimmune Disease?

An autoimmune disease is when the body mistakenly attacks its own tissue by confusing it with a foreign body, such as germs. There are different types of autoimmune diseases, such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and inflammatory bowel disease. People struggling with any one or more of such illnesses have a weak immune system, and drinking can cause further impairment of the immune cells. The toxins in various alcoholic drinks can also cause the autoimmune disease to become more severe.

National surveys suggest that more than 23.5 million, or approximately 7 percent of the U.S. population, struggle with an autoimmune disease. More than 80 percent of those diagnosed with this illness are women. The prevalence of autoimmune disease is greatly determined by genetics, as one-third of the risk is hereditary. In some people, autoimmune disease may occur based on the ability of their immune system to handle stress. Regardless of what causes an autoimmune disease, a person who has developed it must be cautious about their everyday dietary consumption as it plays a significant role in controlling the symptoms.

Can Alcohol Cause Autoimmune Disease? The Role of Alcohol and Autoimmunity

Many people are confused about whether or not alcohol can affect autoimmune diseases or not. Experts are now convinced that drinking can serve as a factor for autoimmunity that not only contributes to the development of an autoimmune disease but also triggers it.

Inflammatory Response

One of the worst possible effects of drinking in someone with an autoimmune disorder is a heightened inflammatory response. Alcohol acts as a systemic pro-inflammatory agent, especially when consumed in excess. The body produces reactive oxygen species as soon as it detects alcohol in the system, which can be highly unstable and can damage the RNA, DNA, and vital proteins while stimulating an inflammatory response. [1] This inflammatory response triggers hypoxia, a condition where the oxygen levels drop in the blood, depriving the body’s vital organs and tissues of oxygen. Once hypoxia sets in, the following symptoms may occur:

• Confusion
• Headaches
• Shortness of breath
• Restlessness
• Bluish discoloration of skin and lips

Damaged Immune Cells

As mentioned before, an inflammatory response is the earliest response to alcohol consumption. Consequently, the inflammation can significantly damage the body’s immune cells and quickly become chronic, further triggering immune system issues. [2] Repeated exposure of a body with an autoimmune disease to alcohol can cause permanent dysregulation, setting the foundation for an autoimmune disorder. In people with a diagnosed but controlled autoimmune disease, drinking can cause the body to lose its control over the immune cells and responses, leading to an overreaction.

Lowered Quality of Sleep

Alcohol detrimentally affects the quality of sleep. Research confirms that drinking close to bedtime has been linked to disruption in regular sleep patterns despite the initial sedation it brings. This disruption is because as the body starts metabolizing alcohol, it loses its soothing effects. Moreover, the liver enzymes the body uses to break down alcohol can further interfere with sleep. In the long run, a lack of sleep can impair immunity and negatively affect an immune system’s overall strength and function, which can be highly damaging to a person with an autoimmune disorder. [3]

How Does Alcohol Affect Autoimmune Disease?

The relationship between alcohol and autoimmune disease can differ based on a person’s current health status, type of autoimmune disorder, and general drinking habits.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Also known as IBS, irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most common autoimmune diseases across the United States, with up to 15% of people suffering from it. Due to its high prevalence, the relationship between alcohol consumption and IBS is well-documented. Research shows that heavy drinking can worsen the symptoms associated with IBS, mainly due to alcohol’s effects on the digestive system. Alcohol is known to tamper with the natural microbiome in the gut, which triggers inflammation and causes a flare-up.

Type One Diabetes

Affecting up to 1.6 million individuals in the United States, type one diabetes is characterized by the destruction of the pancreatic cells responsible for synthesizing insulin. Insulin is a natural hormone that controls sugar levels in the blood and prevents them from becoming too high. As people with type one diabetes are unable to secrete insulin, consuming excessive alcohol can be particularly dangerous.

When consumed in moderation, alcohol can increase blood sugar levels, which a person with type one diabetes may struggle to control even with their regular synthetic insulin dose. However, this surge is usually temporary as, in the long run, heavy alcohol consumption often leads to a drop in sugar levels. These fluctuations can be hazardous and potentially deadly if not caught and treated in time.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is another autoimmune disorder that targets the joints, leading to warm, tender, and swollen joints and other symptoms like fever, fatigue, joint stiffness, and weight loss. Research shows that drinking moderately is not likely to exacerbate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. However, heavy consumption may overrule this observation and lead to unpredictable flare-ups.

Lupus Erythematosus

Like other types of autoimmune disorders, lupus develops when the immune cells turn against different body parts they are designed to protect. This disease targets various body parts, including the heart, brain, blood cells, lungs, skin, joints, and kidneys. For people with lupus and alcohol habits, experts advise caution as drinking can negatively interact with the lupus medications, increasing the risk of developing liver complications and internal bleeding. Moreover, drinking can also exacerbate the risk of side effects due to these medications. Some people may also experience flare-ups, particularly in terms of their skin symptoms, due to increased alcohol intake.

Multiple Sclerosis

Commonly known as MS, multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that targets the central nervous system through overactivation of the immune system. In this particular disease, the overactivated immune cells target and damage the protective layers of the nerve fibers, known as myelin, causing communication issues between the brain and other body parts. MS can lead to various symptoms that differ from one person to another but generally include fatigue, weakness, numbness in limbs, unsteady gait, tremors, vision problems, etc.

When it comes to alcohol and MS, things can be a bit tricky to navigate. Multiple sclerosis is known to cause issues with coordination and balance, and adding alcohol to the picture exacerbates these problems. Moreover, the combination of alcohol with certain MS medications may also not play nice, and a person using them needs to be cautious to avoid interactions.

Alcohol and Autoimmune Disease: Stepping Toward a Healthier Lifestyle

As you understand the relationship between alcohol and autoimmune disease while navigating how drinking can fit into your life, the following are some tips to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle:

Discussion with a doctor

Discuss all questions you have with your healthcare provider and seek tailored advice regarding alcohol consumption based on your specific autoimmune disease and the ongoing treatment plan.

Mindful moderation

If you receive a green light for drinking, always remember to observe the rule of moderation. National guidelines define moderate drinking as one and two drinks per day for women and men, respectively.

Healthy Substitutes

Consider finding non-alcoholic beverages to make your evenings memorable without risking your health. Some examples include fruit-infused water, herbal tea, or non-alcoholic fancy mocktails.

Holistic Health

Incorporate regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good stress management into your daily routine. Remember that health combines balance and teamwork; it is up to you to find out how to fit them together perfectly.

Support System

Remember that autoimmune disease does not only have physical manifestations but can also negatively impact mental health. Connect with family. Members, friends, or local support groups to find people who understand and support your journey. Finding shared experiences and understanding can make life easier and more manageable.

FAQs

Can you drink alcohol if you have an autoimmune disease?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as it depends on the type of autoimmune disorder, the overall health status, the type and amount of alcohol consumed, etc. The best way to find an answer is by contacting a healthcare professional and seeking tailored advice so that you can make an informed decision.

How can alcohol impact autoimmune disorders in general?

Alcohol can lead to both pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory effects, depending on how much a person consumes. Moderate consumption may offer some anti-inflammatory effects, but heavy sessions can exacerbate inflammation and worsen the underlying autoimmune conditions.

Should a person with an autoimmune liver disease drink?

Experts generally recommend people with an autoimmune liver disease to abstain from drinking as their liver is already prone to damage, and alcohol can accelerate this damage.

Is it safe for a person struggling with celiac disease to consume alcohol?

People with celiac disease are generally advised to avoid alcoholic beverages with gluten. Gluten is a common ingredient in many beers and ciders, but some distilled spirits and wines may be safer options. Because gluten is a trigger for celiac disease, be mindful about the type of alcohol you drink.

What should I remember when drinking if I have psoriasis?

Remember that alcohol consumption may cause a flare-up in some people. In others, it may interact with their regular psoriasis medications while dehydrating the skin and worsening symptoms.

How does alcohol affect people with multiple sclerosis?

While alcohol may not directly impact the progression of MS, it can intensify the symptoms, such as issues with coordination and balance. Moreover, it can cross-react with certain medications used to manage MS.

What is the best alcohol for autoimmune disease?

So far, there is no drink perfectly safe for people with autoimmune disorders. However, experts generally consider clear liquors mixed with soda water and polyphenol-rich dry red wine as more favorable options. However, a doctor must be consulted before consuming any of these alcoholic drinks, as their effects may vary from one person to another.

References

1 Wang HJ, Zakhari S, Jung MK. Alcohol, inflammation, and gut-liver-brain interactions in tissue damage and disease development. World journal of gastroenterology: WJG. 2010 Mar 3;16(11):1304.

2 Iddir M, Brito A, Dingeo G, Fernandez Del Campo SS, Samouda H, La Frano MR, Bohn T. Strengthening the immune system and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress through diet and nutrition: considerations during the COVID-19 crisis. Nutrients. 2020 May 27;12(6):1562.

3 Besedovsky L, Lange T, Born J. Sleep and immune function. Pflügers Archiv-European Journal of Physiology. 2012 Jan;463(1):121-37.