My brother is 58 years old and a long time drinker.  He has stopped drinking beer, but his belly has recently gotten very large (looks very pregnant), while his arms, legs and face are very thin.  I know he probably has liver damage, but does the large belly indicate fluid buildup as well, and if so, would draining the fluid help him?
Hi and welcome to Chat Doctor. Yes, it seems like there is fluid accumulation in abdomen called ascites and this is sign of serious liver damage. He should do liver ultrasound and LFT as son as possible and then the right cause should be established. Fluid can be Chat Doctor. Thanks for the query. Regards