Are you worried about the effect of alcohol on your health? Consumption of too much alcohol leads to several issues ranging from mental and physical health to personal and professional life problems. The effect of alcohol is different on each individual and hinges on numerous factors like gender, age and overall health.

As a person drinks alcohol, it streams into the blood through the intestinal lining, circulates to all parts of the body and affects their functioning. Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is a measure of the level of alcohol in the blood. In an average person, a small glass of full-strength beer increases BAC by 0.02. Generally, a person is not allowed to drive if their BAC level is equivalent to 0.05 or more. Against some popular beliefs, taking a cold shower or drinking coffee does not remove alcohol from your system. Only time is able to bring down one’s BAC, so patience is crucial.

In this article, we will discuss the short-term and long-term impacts of alcohol consumption:

Short-Term Impacts:

 1. Hangover;

2. Alcohol poisoning;

3. Injuries.

Long-Term Impacts:

1. Liver problems;

2. Cardiovascular issues;

3. Brain damage and Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome;

4. Enhanced risk of cancer;

5. Obesity;

6. Depression and suicidal thoughts;

7. Addiction.

Hangover

The first immediate effect of drinking too much alcohol is dry mouth, dizziness, issues with concentration, headache and nausea. Ethanol is a toxic chemical present in alcohol and which causes dehydration and headaches. Generally, the hangover symptoms are at their peak when the BAC drops to zero.

Alcohol poisoning

The effects of alcohol start emerging five to ten minutes after its consumption. It is instantly absorbed into the body mainly through the small intestine. Alcohol poisoning may occur when the BAC rises to 0.25%-0.39%. Excessive alcohol consumption in a short period of time can lead to shortness of breath, fluctuations in heart rate and ultimately coma or death.

Injuries

As a person loses consciousness and is unable to concentrate, the chance of injuries and accidents increases manifold.

Liver Problems

Long-term excessive drinking causes alcohol-related liver diseases (ARLD). Studies indicate that around 10-15% of heavy drinkers develop cirrhosis. Initially, fats accumulate over the liver and lead to its inflammation. If the swelling worsens, it may lead to liver hepatitis. Cirrhosis is used to describe the final stage of liver disease where irreversible scarring of the liver tissues happens and can lead to liver failure.

Cardiovascular Diseases

Heavy consumption of alcohol causes high blood pressure and may block the arteries of the heart. It also damages the heart muscles and can cause cardiomyopathy. 

Brain Damage and Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome

Ethanol is a toxic chemical in alcohol that slows down the normal functioning of the brain. The symptoms of Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome include confusion, imbalance and trouble with eye movements. This disorder is a type of dementia that causes memory loss and hallucinations.

Enhanced Risk of Cancer

Drinking too much alcohol may increase the likelihood of different cancers such as cancer of the esophagus, liver, colon or rectum.

Obesity

Alcohol consumption leads to weight gain and obesity. The person’s body is unable to burn calories properly which enhances hunger pangs and food cravings, promoting unhealthy food choices.

Depression and Suicidal Thoughts

Heavy drinking disturbs the balance of healthy chemicals in the brain. In the long run, it interferes with the mood of a person and develops increased chances of depression and anxiety. When depression worsens, the person can develop suicidal tendencies.

Addiction and Substance Abuse

Excessive consumption of alcohol leads to addiction. A person who becomes an alcoholic develops physical and emotional dependence on alcohol. Alcoholics aiming to quit generally join rehab and go through counseling sessions to recover from the substance abuse.

Bottom Line

A person is unable to maintain a healthy lifestyle alongside an excessive consumption of alcohol. It is highly detrimental to one’s personal, professional and social life as well as general health. Alcohol destroys and affects relationships and enhances the tendency for physical and emotional abuse. Always remember to take care of your health and consider the impacts of alcohol before its consumption.