Reforming alcoholic needs advice on upper stomach bloating.

I have been an alcoholic for 3 years, since I was 21. Recently my health problems have been getting worse. Such as withdrawal symptoms. I sometimes experience severe bloating. The most recent experience is a very full feeling in my upper stomach, and some bloating in my belly region. I am having a slight difficulty breathing and eating due to it, and my stomach is visibly larger. It has lasted about 4 days now, but kind of comes and goes. Two days ago I became worried because usually this feeling doesnt last that long, or can be fixed by having a few drinks. I am not having withdrawal symptoms at the moment other than insomnia and the bloating, after being two days into abstinence.

My question is, how likely is it that I have cirrhosis or something that is irreversible since I have been abusing for 3 years and am only 24? My alcoholism progressed from a bottle of wine a day, to a fifth of liquor over that time, with periods of abstinence or moderation. My habits really picked up last summer. Its more to put my mind to rest than anything. I plan on going to the doctor if its not better in a few days.

I am quitting on my own right as we speak, and trying to stick to a recovery plan of vitamins, exercise, and AA meetings. Vitamins I plan on taking are, choline and insitol, milk thistle, probiotics, lecithin, digestive enzymes, and a liver detoxifier that basically is a multivitamin with some herbs.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Cirrhosis can be possible, depending on the severity of alcohol abuse.  Imaging the liver with a CT scan or ultrasound can be done to exclude this, as well as obtaining liver tests.

The definitive test is a liver biopsy, which may be warranted depending on the results of the aforementioned tests.

I would also consider an upper endoscopy to exclude gastritis or an ulcer.  

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patients education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
www.kevinmd.com