A MAN died when he fell down the stairs and hit his head, an inquest heard.

Gerard Ryan, 64, was found dead at home in Broome Road, Billericay, on November 19 last year by his lodger.

The inquest was told Mr Ryan had a history of diabetes, chronic liver disease and alcohol liver disease with varices. He had been discharged from hospital on September 23 after treatment for acute on-chronic subdural haematoma.

He had also had burr hole surgery in the year before his death, had been unsteady on his feet, and suffered from slurred speech and confusion.

On the day he died, Mr Ryan’s lodger, who was only named in court as Mr Taylor, returned home and found him at the bottom of the stairs. Mr Ryan had suffered a cut to the back of his head, which was bleeding.

Paramedics confirmed the death and the police found there were no suspicious circumstances.A post-mortem examination found the cause of death was a skull fracture and extra dural haemorrhage, as well as liver cirrhosis, diabetes and severe coronary atherosclerosis.

Toxicology tests found Mr Ryan had an alcohol/blood level of 249mg–the legal limit to drive is 80mg.

Michelle Brown, assistant deputy coroner for Essex and Thurrock, said: “It’s clear from reading his records and care package he suffered with ill health and it seems to stem from his dependence and struggle with alcohol.”

Mrs Brown ruled Mr Ryan died as the result of an accident.