The Effects of Alcohol
Alcohol is not only absorbed into the bloodstream it comes into contact with the intestines, stomach, esophagus, mouth and throat directly. Sore throat, nausea, indigestion and headaches can be the start of health problems. Serious diseases and illnesses can develop from these and other health problems associated with alcohol if the abuse of alcohol continues even more-so in teens who participate in underage drinking. These include:
- Hangovers
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Loss of muscle control
- Interaction with medications
- Fetal alcohol syndrome
Read more: Alcohol Statistics
Defense against the Effects of Alcohol
The effects of alcohol are not pleasant and the hangover is one of the most unpleasant. It is the body’s attempt to protect itself when you begin to vomit after consuming large amounts of alcohol. The body is trying to rid itself of the correct the effects of alcohol on a person’s balance and the feeling of being disoriented. The dehydration that is caused by consuming alcohol are the cause of hangovers.
Lack of Muscle Control
Judgment can become impaired and coordination be affected negatively by alcohol. The effects of alcohol on muscles include slurred speech. Reaction times are slower and the ability to make decisions is reduced. Simple actions can become difficult to complete. There are numerous medications that alcohol interacts with negatively. Drowsiness associated with medications such as antihistamines is increased when they are taken with alcohol. There is greater risk for liver damage when alcohol is combined with large doses of acetaminophen. The effects of alcohol are not limited to the one willingly consuming it. Pregnant women that drink put their children at risk for birth defects. Fetal alcohol syndrome results in behavior problems, mental impairments and physical abnormalities. It is best to avoid alcohol all together while pregnant to help prevent birth defects.
Long Term Effects of Alcohol
The long term affects from alcohol can put you at risk for serious illness and health conditions because there are a number of organs that are affected. Abnormal yellowing of urine, eyeballs, skin, abdominal pain and fever are all symptoms associated with inflammation of the liver. Cirrhosis can result and the function of the liver in the metabolism of alcohols makes it dangerous. The liver is not able to regenerate when the cells are destroyed by alcohol. This could cause an alcohol related death, which you want no part of.
See: Alcohol Withdrawal Medication
Alcohol and the Brain
There are a number of factors that determine the effects of alcohol on the brain and the extent that a person is affected. These include age, how much alcohol is being consumed, how long someone has been drinking and the history of alcoholism in the family. General health will influence the effect that alcohol has as well. The memory can become impaired with alcohol after even a few drinks. The more alcohol that is consumed the greater the risk associated with it. If you’re looking for a Non 12-Step Alcohol Rehab, read more or call us. When the effects become overwhelming or dangerous to health it is time to seek help.