Last Updated on July 17, 2023 by Emma White
Have you ever wondered what excessive drinking does to your body? Over time, it can cause severe health problems and take years off your life expectancy. Many people don’t fully realize the dangers they face due to regular overindulgence in alcohol until they reach a point where help, such as a rehab center in Orange County, becomes essential.
This article highlights seven ways excessive drinking can wreak havoc on your body and the importance of staying vigilant against alcohol abuse.
1. Liver Damage
One of the most well-known consequences of heavy alcohol consumption is liver damage. Your liver is responsible for breaking down and processing ethanol, the primary component of alcoholic beverages. Excessive drinking may lead to fatty liver disease, hepatitis, and a severe medical condition called cirrhosis, which can have fatal consequences.
2. Impact on Brain Function
Alcohol’s impact on the brain and its functions can be harmful. Consistent heavy drinking may reduce gray matter in your brain, which is vital for cognition, learning, memory, and emotional regulation. It also disrupts brain pathways that affect coordination and decision-making, leading to potentially dangerous situations.
3. Increased Risk of Cancer
Chronic excessive alcohol consumption increases the risk of developing various types of cancer. These include cancers of the mouth, throat, larynx, esophagus, breast, liver, colon, and rectum. Alcohol acts as a carcinogen, particularly in areas where it comes into direct contact with tissues like the throat.
4. Heart Disease
Heavy drinking is associated with a higher risk of heart disease. This is because it increases blood pressure levels which can damage artery walls. This damage could lead to blood clotting or plaque build-up, which may result in heart attacks or strokes. Additionally, heavy drinking can also weaken heart muscles causing further health complications.
5. Digestive Problems
Excessive alcohol consumption can irritate the stomach lining and hinder proper digestion. Gastritis, inflammation of the stomach lining, and potential ulcers or bleeding may result if left untreated. Also, heavy drinking can impair nutrient absorption, leading to malnutrition.
6. Hormonal Imbalances
Alcohol disrupts the functioning of the endocrine system that regulates hormones. Chronic excessive drinking can impair testosterone production in men. This can lead to sexual dysfunction and lowered fertility. Drinking excessively can also raise estrogen levels in women, leading to menstrual irregularities and an increased risk of breast cancer.
7. Weakened Immune System
Lastly, alcohol weakens your immune system, which reduces your body’s ability to fight off common illnesses and infections. This can create a higher risk of succumbing to more severe conditions like pneumonia or tuberculosis.
The consequences of excessive drinking cannot be overstated. So next time you are out with friends, remember that moderation is key when it comes to alcohol consumption. If you or a loved one has a history of alcohol abuse or is currently struggling with addiction, seeking professional help could be an essential step toward recovery. Be sure to take care of your body and remember that preventing excessive alcohol consumption is far easier than dealing with its destructive aftermath.
