The Effects of Alcohol On Your Body
Drinking alcohol affects every organ in your body. It also adversely affects you psychologically, emotionally, and socially. Read on to know more about the effects of alcohol on your body and mind.
The Brain
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. It changes the brain’s function by slowing it down. Slurred speech, slower reaction time, impaired vision and hearing, weakened muscles, and impaired thinking, and memory are commonly seen effects. Long-term alcohol consumption can lead to changes in mood, behavior, coordination, and the ability to learn. Binge drinking can lead to blackouts, memory loss, and anxiety.
The Heart
Alcohol leads to increased and irregular heart rate, hypertension or high blood pressure, and weakening of the heart muscle which can lead to heart failure.
The Immune System
Excessive alcohol consumption may lead to immune deficiency, causing increased vulnerability to infectious diseases such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C, septicemia, etc.
The Liver
Initially, alcohol can lead to the development of fat deposits in the liver. Continued excessive drinking can permanently scar and damage the liver, cause liver cirrhosis, and even liver failure.
The Pancreas
Long-term consumption of alcohol can cause pancreatitis which is a painful condition, that causes vomiting, fever, and weight loss. It can be fatal.
Sexuality
Alcohol can cause reduced libido and infertility in men. In women, long-term use of alcohol can cause infertility.
Pregnancy and Fetal Development
Prolonged and excessive alcohol consumption can result in irregular periods, preventing conception and increasing the risk of early miscarriage.
Drinking during pregnancy can damage the development of the fetus, leading to mental retardation and birth defects.
Mental Health
Contrary to popular belief that alcohol reduces stress, drinking alcohol actually causes several mental health problems, such as
- anxiety
- depression
- insomnia and sleeping problems
- personality disorders
- risk-taking behaviors
If you or a loved one has a drinking problem or is suffering from alcoholism, consult one of the best San Diego drug rehab centers, Pacific Bay Recovery at 858-263-9700. The San Diego rehab offers innovative therapies utilizing a combination of group therapy, individual psychotherapy, and holistic treatment techniques that have proven high success rates.
