What is the primary cause of alcoholic hepatitis?

The primary cause of alcoholic hepatitis is excessive alcohol use. This condition is a type of liver inflammation that occurs as a direct result of heavy drinking over time. When alcohol is consumed in large amounts, it can lead to the accumulation of harmful substances in the liver, causing cellular damage and inflammation. This inflammation is an indication that the liver is struggling to cope with the toxins produced by alcohol metabolism.

Alcoholic hepatitis can occur in individuals who drink heavily over a short period, as well as in those who have a long-standing history of alcohol abuse. The severity of the condition can vary widely among individuals but is often exacerbated by the amount and duration of alcohol consumption. Other factors, such as nutritional deficiencies and co-existing liver disease, can also influence the risk, but the fundamental cause remains excessive alcohol intake.

Factors like high cholesterol or a low protein diet do not directly cause alcoholic hepatitis, although they may contribute to liver health in different ways. Genetic predisposition can influence an individual's risk for liver disease, but it is the excessive consumption of alcohol that is the primary and most direct cause of alcoholic hepatitis.