Introduction
The consumption of alcohol is a personal choice. Many people find it to be a good relaxant or social lubricant, or just love the sensation it creates. Others are opposed to alcohol consumption for health or moral reasons. Some people choose to consume alcohol in moderation, while others consume heavily. SAMHSA defines heavy drinking as “5 or more alcoholic drinks on a single occasion on at least 1 day in the last 30 days.” Heavy drinking can often lead to an addiction or dependence. Heavy drinkers must understand how alcohol affects the body. Alcohol is typically a byproduct that the body attempts to eliminate. Even trace amounts of alcohol affect the body’s systems. If you consume more alcohol than your body can process, you will become intoxicated as the alcohol level rises in your bloodstream and circulates throughout your body. This distribution has the potential to affect the body’s several systems including the nervous system, respiratory system, etc. This blog by experts from Skyward Treatment Center, which is one of the best and most successful rehabs in Houston, Texas, looks at the different ways that alcohol affects the body.
How Alcohol Affects the Body
Alcohol, which is ubiquitous in social gatherings, may appear harmless. The intricate dance between the human body and alcohol, on the other hand, reveals a complex story with far-fetched consequences. As the substance passes through various systems, its effects become profound and, in excess, potentially harmful.
- Circulatory System. Alcohol can damage the circulatory system, either in the short-term or long term. In the short term, alcohol can lead to increased blood flow through blood vessel dilation. On the other hand, chronic alcohol consumption has been found to be associated with irregular heartbeats, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Reproductive System. Alcohol abuse on a long-term basis can interfere with the production of hormones in the reproductive system, causing fertility problems and contributing to sexual dysfunction. Pregnant women should also be aware that alcohol is a major risk to the development of a fetus and it can cause abnormalities in the child.
- Nervous System. The nervous system is one of the areas that alcohol affects most evidently. Since alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, brain function gets slowed down and thus one’s judgment, coordination, and reaction rates get impaired. Chronic alcohol abuse can also lead to dementia.
- Respiratory System. Chronic alcohol abuse slows down the respiratory mechanism. It presents with dyspnea or in severe instances respiratory failure. Chronic alcohol abuse also increases the risk of respiratory tract infections including pneumonia.
- Digestive System. The digestive system is affected by alcohol consumption in a major way. Alcohol can lead to irritation of the stomach or esophagus, inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), and, in the extreme, cancer of the esophagus. Other effects include liver problems like cirrhosis.
- Immune System. Alcohol impairs immunity, increasing the body’s vulnerability to diseases and infections. Chronic alcohol abuse impairs the body’s ability to fight pathogens, resulting in more infections and longer recovery times.
- Skeletal System. Abuse of alcohol over a long period of time can affect the body’s absorption of calcium, which is crucial for healthy bones. This disruption increases the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Don’t suffer in silence. Contact alcohol addiction treatment experts at Skyward Treatment Center in Houston, Texas, and receive guidance on the next steps toward recovery. Our treatment programs are tailored to each patient’s specific needs and our packages are pocket-friendly. We also accept insurance. Reach out to us today.
