Combat Alcoholism

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The Physical Effects of Alcoholism

Setting aside the  mental consequence of alcoholism, the physical effect of it cannot be denied.  Alcoholism absolutely wreaks havoc on the physical aspect of a person….

The most commonly know effect of incessant alcohol indulgence are liver degeneration- a condition termed “cirrhosis”. But, there is are also neurological, cardiovascular and physically visible effects to consider.

Alcohol is regarded as a toxin by the body. As alcohol enters the body, our endocrine system, which acts as our body’s natural system of defense for toxins, acts on it vigorously until such time that this “poison” is neutralized. Studies have shown that one drink can be neutralized by our body in one hour and drinking more means more work for our body but, as one drinks more, the endocrine system is overworked, which may lead to the liver becoming overwhelmed  and eventually faltering or even ceasing to function. 

Another organ that is being killed by excessive alcohol is the brain. As one becomes intoxicated, neurons die due to alcohol poisoning- an effect that is totally irreversible.  Additionally, the damage done to the nervous system may result in loss of balance, numbness of limbs, impotence and mental confusion.

Last, we have the heart.  Alcohol abuse can lead to high blood pressure, sometimes to the point that it is visibly noticable by peers because it causes that “red faced” effect on the drinker.  Continued damage to the cardiovascular system can then manifest into heart failure or stroke if alcoholism goes untreated.

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