Symptoms

The most common sign of alcoholic hepatitis is yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice).

Other signs and symptoms include:

• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting
• Abdominal tenderness
• Fever, often low grade
• Fatigue and weakness

Malnutrition is common in people with alcoholic hepatitis. Drinking large amounts of alcohol suppresses the appetite, and heavy drinkers get most of their calories from alcohol.

Additional signs and symptoms that occur with severe alcoholic hepatitis include:

• Fluid accumulation in your abdomen (ascites)
• Confusion and behavior changes due to a buildup of toxins normally broken down and eliminated by the liver
• Kidney and liver failure

When to see a doctor

Alcoholic hepatitis is a serious, often deadly disease.

See your doctor if you:

• Have signs or symptoms of alcoholic hepatitis
• Can't control your drinking
• Would like help cutting back on your drinking