What Does Alcohol Do To Your Body? Physical Effects of Prolonged Alcohol UseBy Michaela

Drinking alcohol is a personal choice that varies from person to person. Some people may enjoy the feeling that alcohol gives them or use it as a way to relax or socialize with others. Others may view alcohol consumption in a negative light due to health concerns or personal beliefs.

At some point you may realise that drinking is less of a choice and more of something that you feel tied in with.

Moderate alcohol consumption is now widely understood to have zero health benefits and even in small quantities is considered damaging to health. Heavy alcohol consumption can have serious negative effects on health. It is essential for individuals to be aware of the physical effects that alcohol can have on the body in order to prioritize their overall health and well-being. Chronic alcohol use can lead to a number of physical effects that can be harmful to your overall health and well-being.

Liver damage

The liver is a vital organ that plays a crucial role in many important bodily functions, including the breakdown and metabolism of alcohol. When too much alcohol alcohol is consumed, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the liver, where it is broken down into various byproducts. The liver is able to process a certain amount of alcohol efficiently, but when it is consumed in excess, it can become overwhelmed and unable to keep up with the demand.

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a range of liver problems, including fatty liver disease, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis. Alcohol affects the liver more heavily than most organs, and if you drink alcohol on a regular basis, your liver will be working overtime.

Symptoms of liver damage may include abdominal pain, fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes), loss of appetite, nausea, and swelling in the legs and ankles.

Heart complications

Having a chronic alcohol intake or excessive alcohol use can increase your likelihood of developing hypertension, heart failure, and stroke. The heart muscle and blood vessels can also get weaker due to alcohol or alcohol abuse, which will make it less efficient at pumping blood, increasing the risk of heart failure, which occurs when the body cannot get enough blood from the heart.

Alcohol can also disrupt the normal electrical signals that control the rhythm of the heart, leading to irregular heart rhythms or arrhythmias. Substance abuse can also cause this issue. These abnormal heart rhythms can be serious and potentially life-threatening.

Symptoms of heart problems may include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, and fainting. If you drink heavily and experience these symptoms, you should consider combatting your heavy drinking.

Pancreatitis

The pancreas is an important organ that plays a vital role in the body’s ability to digest food and regulate blood sugar. It produces enzymes that help break down food and hormones, such as insulin, that help regulate blood sugar levels. Alcohol abuse can lead to inflammation of the pancreas, a condition known as pancreatitis. 

Immediate medical intervention is required for this condition as it can potentially be life-threatening if left untreated. The pancreas can become inflamed and damaged from chronic alcohol consumption due to the accumulation of digestive enzymes produced by alcohol.

Cancer

Prolonged alcohol use has been linked to an increased risk of certain types of cancer, including breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, and colon cancer. Since alcohol can damage DNA, the genetic material that controls the function of cells in the body. This can lead to changes in the way that cells grow and divide, increasing the risk of cancer.

Alcohol consumption can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb nutrients and vitamins that help protect against cancer, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. It can also increase the levels of estrogen in the body, which has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. 

Gastrointestinal problems

Alcohol abuse can lead to gastritis by damaging the protective lining of the stomach and disrupting the normal balance of stomach acid. This can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.

Symptoms of gastrointestinal problems may include abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and changes in bowel movements.

Neurological illnesses

Alcohol abuse can lead to a range of neurological problems, including memory loss, difficulty walking, and tremors. It can also increase the risk of developing conditions such as stroke and brain damage. 

Symptoms of neurological problems may include difficulty speaking, weakness or numbness in the limbs and changes in behavior or cognition.

Immune system problems

The immune system is the body’s natural defense against illness and infection, and it works to identify and eliminate harmful substances, such as bacteria and viruses, from the body. It can reduce the production of white blood cells, which are important for fighting infection.

For example, alcohol can disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the gut, which is important for maintaining a healthy immune system. 

Reproductive issues

Alcohol abuse can lead to fertility problems in both men and women and can affect the development of a fetus during pregnancy. In men, alcohol abuse can reduce testosterone levels, which can lead to fertility problems and changes in sexual function. In women, alcohol abuse can disrupt the menstrual cycle, making it more difficult to become pregnant. 

Additionally, alcohol abuse during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage and birth defects and can affect the development of the fetus.

How To Avoid The Physical Effects Of Alcohol Consumption

While it may seem to be okay to enjoy a drink occasionally, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks of alcohol consumption and to take steps to reduce your intake if necessary. Knowing the physical effects of alcohol can serve as a reminder of why it’s important to make healthy choices when it comes to your alcohol intake. 

If you’re struggling with alcohol dependency or are concerned about your alcohol intake, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. 

It might be worth your while to consult with The Alcohol Coach if you are committed to improving your health and avoiding the negative effects of alcohol. This program has a track record of success in assisting women to overcome alcohol dependence and can provide you with the support and guidance you need to make positive changes in your life. 

Consider reaching out to The Alcohol Coach to learn more about how they can help you on your journey towards better health and well-being. Click through to join the free Masterclass for women to find out how to get your control and power back over alcohol.