Matthew Perry in recovery after undergoing emergency gastrointestinal surgery

Friends star Matthew Perry is recovering after undergoing emergency gastrointestinal surgery.

"Matthew Perry recently underwent surgery in a Los Angeles hospital to repair a gastrointestinal perforation," the actor's rep said in a statement to People on Tuesday. "He is grateful for the concern and asks for continued privacy as he heals."

According to the Mayo Clinic, a gastrointestinal perforation is caused by a hole which can develop through the stomach, large bowel, or small intestine.

There are a number of different causes including appendicitis, diverticulitis, gallstones, or Crohn's disease.

The 48-year-old has been open about his health issues -- including his battle with alcohol and Vicodin addiction while filming on Friends -- in the past.

He told ABC News in 2013, "Mostly it was drinking and opiates. I think I was pretty good at hiding it, but eventually people were aware."

That same year, the 17 Again star received a Champion of Recovery award from the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy for opening a sober living home based in Malibu, California.

"The thing that I'm most proud of in my life is if a stranger came up to me and said 'I can't stop drinking. Can you help me?' I can say, 'Yes. I can help you,'" he told ABC News.

If you or someone you know needs help, contact Family Drug Helpline on 1300 660 068, or Lifeline on 13 11 14.