What are the Health Risks of Alcohol Abuse?
Alcohol is the most used drug in the United States, it is also the most accessible. Nearly 15 million Americans suffer from some form of alcohol use disorder. Unhealthy use of alcohol ranges from mild to severe including alcoholism and binge drinking. Alcohol abuse and excessive drinking can lead to serious health risks including addiction, permanent organ damage, depression and overdose. Rehabilitation centers like Silver Linings Recovery Center can help you identify if you’re an alcoholic and provide a comprehensive treatment plan with options for inpatient, outpatient and partial hospitalization available. Read our comprehensive guide to the long-term health risks of alcohol abuse to gain a better understanding of how your drinking habits are hurting your body and brain.
Health Risks of Chronic Heavy Drinking on the Body
It is common knowledge that drinking has significant impacts on a person’s health, short-term and long-term. But were you aware that alcohol is the third-leading preventable cause of death in the country? Over 85,000 Americans die from alcohol-related causes each year. Short-term effects of heavy drinking include dehydration, changes in heartbeat and slowed breathing. Over time, abuse of alcohol can result in long-term bodily health conditions including:
- Obesity
- Liver cirrhosis
- Stomach ulcers
- Heart damage
- Stroke
- Compromised immune system
- Malnutrition
- Hormonal imbalance
- Cancer of the mouth, esophagus, liver, colon or breast
Health Risks of Chronic Heavy Drinking on the Brain
Besides bodily harm, excessive long-term drinking can alter a person’s mental well-being and cause permanent damage to the brain. After just one night of drinking, many people will experience loss of memory (blackouts), problems with coordination & balance and making rash or irresponsible decisions. The long-term health risks alcohol abuse has on the brain include:
- Nerve damage
- Insomnia
- Trouble with balance
- Decreased attention span
- Difficulty forming thoughts
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Dementia
- Wernicke’s encephalopathy
- Korsakoff’s psychosis (“wet brain”)
- Overdose
Get Treatment for Alcohol Abuse and Addition
Luckily once you make the decision to stop drinking many of the above long-term effects on the brain and body can be reversed. If you or someone you love is suffering from alcohol addiction, we’re here to help. Silver Linings Recovery Center is the leading treatment center for drug and alcohol addiction in the Philadelphia tri-state area, offering two locations in Bucks County, PA and Mercer County, NJ. Get Help Now: 855-960-3769.
