My husbands son has been an alcoholic for 20 years and has now in the last year or 2 progessed to meth.  He appears to have jaundice ans about 6 years ago a pysician diagnosed him with some type of liver ailment.What in your opinion is going on and how long can someone who has been abusing their body last?
Hi thanks for asking question. He is on alcohol since 20 year. So it is quit big duration. With alcohol and its metabolite aldehyde is very toxic to liver. So alcoholic usually first develop fatty liver and if not taken care then progress to hepatitis. Before 6 year he might have hepatitis and do jaundice. If still care not taken then cirrhosis develops. So he should be searched for cirrhosis by USG abdomen and serum albumin. If still he will not take care then chances of cancer and liver failure or encephalopathy is there.... So although you have not asked I would like to give advice like stop alcohol, cut of oil in diet, fruits more, papaya useful if taken. Take care. I hope I have solved your query regarding effect of alcohol on liver.... Chat Doctor.