Liver and Kidneys
Excessive alcohol use can decrease liver and kidney functions and interfere with the absorption and distribution of nutrients. Regular drinking can lead to fat accumulating in liver cells, a situation that returns to normal when drinking stops. Long-term excessive drinking can cause hepatitis (inflammation and destruction of liver cells) and cirrhosis (scarring and shrinkage of the liver).
Hepatitis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis can occur simulataneously. Eventually the liver function becomes highly disturbed, with consequences for many bodily functions. Examples include a blood coagulation disorder, intoxication by normal doses of medicines, and encephalopathy.
Both acute and chronic alcohol consumption can compromise kidney function. Alcohol can change the structure and function of the kidneys. It impairs their ability to regulate the volume and composition of fluid and electrolytes in the body. For example, alcohol can produce urine flow within 20 minutes of consumption. As a result of urinary fluid losses, the concentration of electrolytes (e.g., sodium, potassium) in the blood increases. These changes can be profound in chronic alcoholic patients, who may demonstrate clinical evidence of dehydration.
Alcohol can also hamper the regulation of acidity, thus affecting the body's metabolic balance. For example, a reduction in the elimination of uric acid can lead to an attack of gout.