Is Alcohol Consumption Safe While Recovering From Jaundice?

Posted on Sat, 5 Nov 2016

Question: i was suffering from Jaundice for past 2 weeks and now my total bilirubin count reduced to 0.69 mg/dl from 1.9 and GGT is now at 95 IU/mL . Is it safe to consume alcohol after 2 months in a moderate level

Answered by Dr. Dr. Happykumar Kagathara (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
SGPT and SGOT best predict liver metabolism

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
1) Alcohol get metabolised by liver cells. Actually quantity of alcohol to predict metabolism capacity is incorrect. In fact, capacity of liver cell is best predictor for alcohol metabolism. In susceptible person, even minute quantity of alcohol may damage liver cells.
2) Also liver has different functions, and function of bile formation (bilirubin level) and function of metabolism of product like alcohol (liver enzyme levels) and function of production (protein level). Thus It is difficult to say about capacity of alcohol metabolism based on bilirubin level. Liver enzymes (SGPT, SGOT) are best predictor for it.
3) Also mentioned in your history that you have tried Unani medicines. Here I suggest you that some of Unani, Ayurvedic, Homeopathic medicines are toxic to liver metabolism and affect liver function more than alcohol.
4) Based on history of jaundice past 2 week (without knowledge of SGPT, SGOT), it is not advisable to consume alcohol for 4-6 weeks after jaundice.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Happykumar Kagathara (28 minutes later)

Thanks Dr for your prompt reply.I would like to share My SGPT and SGOT current count as per the recent blood test report, are SGOT(37) and SGPT(30) after 3 weeks of treat. Please let me is these levels are good ?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Happykumar Kagathara (11 hours later)

Brief Answer:
SGPT and SGOT are withhin normal range

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
I apologize for late reply
This level of SGPT and SGOT are within normal range.
Although consumption of alcohol is not recommended, mild-moderate level of consumption in relation to this values of these tests does not have any immediate effect on liver cells.
It is not advisable to start mild-to-moderate consumption of alcohol after 2-3 weeks of jaundice. You should pass another 2-3 weeks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Happykumar Kagathara (7 hours later)

Hello Dr, Thanks for your Answer. The reason i asked for consumption of alcohol is because the doctor told me drinking alcohol further will lead to blood vomiting. And i too don't want to consume alcohol on a daily basis, just wanted to know if any occasions i can take some very limited levels. And also today i had the Urine test and below are the test results.
Bile Salt - Nil
Bile Pigments - Negative
Albumin - Nil
Sugar- Nil
Also Dr. Told i am totally cured and i can resume the normal diet. Please advice if it safe to add some spice and salt to the food ?

Answered by Dr. Dr. Happykumar Kagathara (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Normal urine test

Detailed Answer:
Hello,
1) Yes alcohol related damage to liver cause cirrhosis which lead to blood vomit. After suggested period of 4-6 weeks, you may drink socially.
2) Your urine report is absolutely within normal range
3) In your diet, you should reduce spices as it may develop gastritis.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T