The number one killer of people with alcoholism is liver disease, most commonly alcoholic cirrhosis and liver failure caused by long-term alcohol use. At Southeastern Recovery Center, we educate individuals and families about how chronic drinking affects the body over time and why early treatment can significantly reduce the risk of life-threatening complications. Alcohol-related deaths are often preventable, especially when support is accessed before irreversible damage occurs.
The liver is responsible for breaking down alcohol and removing toxins from the body. When alcohol is consumed in excess over long periods, the liver becomes overwhelmed and damaged.
Alcohol related liver disease typically progresses through stages:
Cirrhosis severely limits the liver’s ability to function and can ultimately lead to liver failure and death.
Alcoholic liver disease is one of the most common causes of chronic liver illness in the United States.
Risk increases with:
Many people do not experience symptoms until the disease is advanced.
Advanced liver disease may cause:
These symptoms require immediate medical evaluation.
Yes. While liver disease is the leading cause, alcoholism also significantly increases the risk of death from:
Alcohol also worsens mental health conditions and increases suicide risk.
Yes. Sobriety can dramatically lower the risk of alcohol-related death, especially if intervention happens early.
Benefits of stopping alcohol include:
Early stage liver damage may partially or fully reverse with sustained abstinence.
Cirrhosis is generally considered permanent. However, stopping alcohol can still slow or stop further damage and improve quality of life.
Even with advanced disease, treatment and sobriety can extend life expectancy and reduce complications.
At Southeastern Recovery Center, we focus on early intervention and whole person care.
Support may include:
Our goal is to help individuals protect their health before irreversible harm occurs.
It may be time to seek treatment if:
Seeking help is a sign of strength, not failure.
Alcoholism can quietly damage the body long before the danger feels real. Liver disease remains the leading cause of death among alcoholics, but it does not have to be the outcome. At Southeastern Recovery Center, we believe education, early care, and compassionate treatment can save lives. Recovery is possible, and taking action today can protect tomorrow.