mid term alcohol abuse.

[imnotapanda]

Hi there, I've sadly discovered im an alcoholic and am scared and worried about myself. I am seeing a therapist and starting to work on group things but have some questions. I've been a daily drinker for 4 years and drink about 7 drinks a day and have had some nasty side effects, most notable daily diarrhea and dehydrated palms. i'm 30, 5'8 175 pounds. My Questions are:

1. I have had a physical done recently and had my ALT at 80, insurance company sent me a letter asking me to retest in 6mo. What is the likely hood ive caused irreversible damage to myself?

2. Have you heard of health insurance companies canceling coverage in cases of addicts?

3. I've gone a few days here and there w/o drinking and feel fine, if i go cold turkey is that a good indication i wont have any severe withdrawal symptoms?

4. Is taking Milk thistle and vitamins while drinking/posting drinking a good idea?

Thanks,

- scared.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

To answer your questions:

1) It would depend on what is elevating your ALT.  There are many causes that are reversible.  I agree with repeating the test, but if your doctors agrees, evaluation for viral hepatitis and imaging the liver with an ultrasound can also be considered.

2) Health insurance companies can deny coverage for a variety of pre-existing conditions.

3) 7 drinks a day for 4 years is a heavy use of alcohol.  Indeed, there is a strong possibility that withdrawal symptoms will occur if use is abruptly stopped.

4) Can't answer that without knowing which vitamins you're talking about, and an evaluation of your concurrent medical conditions.

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

Kevin Pho, M.D.

KevinMD.com
Twitter.com/KevinMD
Facebook.com/KevinMDblog

[imnotapanda]

I also have psoriasis, not sure if its related...