The hepatitis C virus (HCV) causes inflammation and damages liver cells. Over the course of decades, this damage accumulates. The combination of excessive alcohol use and infection from HCV can cause significant liver damage. It can lead to permanent scarring of the liver, known as cirrhosis. If you’ve been diagnosed with chronic HCV infection, you should refrain from drinking alcohol.
The liver performs many important functions, including detoxifying the blood and making many important nutrients that the body needs. When you drink alcohol, the liver breaks it down so it can be removed from your body. Drinking too much can damage or kill liver cells.
Inflammation and long-term damage to your liver cells can lead to:
Fatty liver disease and early-stage alcoholic hepatitis can be reversed if you stop drinking. However, damage from severe alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis is permanent, and may lead to drastic complications or even death.
Exposure to the blood of someone who has HCV can transmit the virus. According to the
However, some develop a chronic HCV infection. The
Studies show that substantial alcohol intake with an HCV infection is a health risk. A
Other studies have confirmed that excessive alcohol use increases the risk of cirrhosis. A
A 2000 JAMA study showed that just three or more daily drinks can increase the risk of cirrhosis and advanced liver disease.
Direct acting antiviral therapy to treat HCV infection can lead to a reduced risk of liver disease. However, alcohol use may interfere with the ability to consistently take the medication. Sometimes, practitioners or insurance companies may be hesitant to provide treatment for HCV if you are still actively drinking.
Overall, evidence shows that alcohol consumption is a big risk for people with HCV infection. Alcohol causes damage that compounds damage to the liver. Even small amounts of alcohol may increase the risk of liver damage and advanced liver disease.
It’s important for those with HCV to take steps to reduce their risk of developing advanced liver disease. Schedule regular checkups, visit the dentist, and take appropriate medications.
Avoiding substances that are toxic to the liver is vital. The collective effects of alcohol on the liver and the inflammation caused by HCV can be serious. Those with an HCV infection should abstain from alcohol completely.