If you’ve ever had a little more alcohol than you should, you know about alcohol effects on the body. But in this situation, you might just be thinking about the subsequent hangover. In fact, the chemicals in the drug begin affecting your body from the first sip you take. Over time, these effects can build up to create dangerous, sometimes deadly, consequences.
3: Alcohol is the Third Leading Cause of Preventable Death in the United States
The experts at Jama identify alcohol consumption as the cause of death for nearly 4% of individuals. It’s after tobacco use and poor diets as well as lack of exercise.
1 in 3: Number of Liver Transplants Necessary because of Alcohol
Researchers at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) make the connection between alcohol use and liver disease. The liver is the organ that breaks down any alcohol you consume. In the process, the chemicals of the drug damage the liver, which leads to an inflammation of the organ. The organ’s failure starts with fat buildup and then results in alcoholic hepatitis, fibrosis, or cirrhosis.
500,000: New Heart Failure Diagnoses Each Year in the United States
As the Current Atherosclerosis Reports Journal notes, each year there are another half-million new cases of heart failure. There’s a strong link between excessive alcohol consumption and this disease. Examples include alcohol-caused triglyceride increases, high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy, and irregular heartbeats. Long-term drinking, as well as incidents of bingeing, can lead to heart problems and death.
Between 100 mg/dL and 140 mg/dL: Safe Blood Sugar Levels for People with Diabetes who Drink Alcohol
The American Diabetes Association states that moderate drinking may not cause problems. But depending on your drink of choice and the amount you consume, alcohol can cause hypoglycemia. This risk continues for a 24-hour period after drinking. Symptoms may include disorientation, dizzy spells, and an inability to stay awake.
7 Out of 10: Number of People who Develop Mouth Cancer and Drink Heavily
Regular excessive alcohol consumption is a major factor in the development of certain cancers. In the case of mouth cancer, the NIAAA also identifies alcohol in cases of larynx and esophagus cancers. But the alcohol-related cancer risk does not end there. Additional cases involving the liver and breasts may also connect to alcohol consumption.
Reduce Adverse Alcohol Effects on the Body with Treatment
You can avoid many alcohol effects on the body by curtailing consumption to moderate levels. But when you suffer from an addiction, alcohol treatment programs offer a way out. Examples of treatment options include:
- Men and women’s rehab for gender-centric therapies
- Cognitive behavioral therapy and other modalities
- Group therapy sessions as well as one-on-one talk therapy
- 12-Step recovery
At Crestview Recovery, friendly therapists partner with you to overcome an alcohol use disorder. Contact us today at 866-580-4160 for immediate assistance.
