Q. Why do alcoholics continue drinking after receiving a liver transplant?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Although a liver transplant can give an alcoholic a new start, the reality of their situation is more complex than that. While some individuals may be able to successfully manage their alcohol consumption after receiving such a life-saving procedure, others still struggle with addiction even after they have received a healthy new organ.

There are numerous factors at play when it comes to why alcoholics continue drinking after receiving a transplant. First and foremost, many people who suffer from alcoholism do not seek help until they require this procedure due to serious health complications stemming from prolonged substance abuse. Similarly, research has indicated that people who drink heavily often demonstrate greater difficulty in changing behavior and reducing their consumption – making it harder for someone with an extensive history of alcohol abuse to switch gears once they have had the surgery.

Additionally, although the surgery gives one temporary relief from liver damage and other related issues caused by long-term alcohol abuse, it fails to directly address underlying mental health problems that coincide with excessive drinking or provide an individual with essential coping mechanisms or strategies needed for recovery on their own terms. In addition to pharmacological treatments (like disulfiram) which can sometimes help reduce cravings in those with moderate drinking habits but are less helpful in cases where there is already extensive damage present due to previous heavy use of substances - behavioral therapy , counseling and peer support networks like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) offer considerably more promising long term solutions for someone suffering from alcoholism attempting sobriety long by helping them make lifestyle changes as well as confronting any underlying psychological issues . Finally, although there is no lack of good intentions among those receiving these surgeries - if not approached correctly these interventions can ultimately be ineffective if necessary steps toward nursing back physical health aren’t taken conjointly helped along by ongoing mental health treatments like CBT or EMDR therapy .

In conclusion , while transplants may temporarily provide respite for some individuals dealing with severe medical consequences due other behaviors having involved extended alcohol use - lasting success requires addressing complications caused by substance abuse both medically through appropriate dietary/ fitness regimes as well as mentally through therapies designed specifically tailored towards healing psychological aspects related directly ones dependence on alcoholic drinks .