Excessive alcohol consumption is a primary cause of major health problems and accidents.
Many people have died from cirrhosis and car accidents, but these are only two of the consequences of heavy drinking. According to research, there are actually more than 60 diseases associated with alcohol consumption.
Here are some of the conditions which can result from habitual consumption of large amounts of alcohol:
1. Anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the red blood cells in the body are low. This condition is also associated with fatigue, lightheadedness and shortness of breath.
2. Cancer
It increases the risk of cancer. This happens when the body converts alcohol into acetaldehyde, a chemical which can cause cancer. The most common types of cancer suffered by chronic heavy drinkers affect their mouth, throat, larynx, esophagus, breast and liver.
3. Cardiovascular disease
Binge drinking, which causes the blood to clot, can lead to heart attack or stroke. It can also cause the weakening and eventual failure of heart muscles and the abnormal contraction of the heart’s upper chambers and ventricles. These conditions can all be fatal.
4. Cirrhosis
Alcohol is always bad for the liver as it can cause cirrhosis, the heavy scarring of the liver which makes it unable to function.
5. Dementia
Heavy drinking speeds up the shrinking of the brain which leads to memory loss and dementia. It can also cause heavy drinkers to lose their ability to solve problems and make judgments.
6. Depression
Depression is one of the worst consequences of chronic alcoholic consumption.
7. Seizures
Chronic heavy drinking can trigger seizures even in people who don’t suffer from epilepsy. Alcohol is also known to obstruct the effect of anti-epilepsy drugs.
8. High blood pressure
Alcohol consumption can affect the normal constriction and dilation of your blood vessels. This causes blood pressure to rise. Prolonged high blood pressure can also affect the health of your kidneys and heart.
9. Neuropathy
Neuropathy is a form of nerve damage caused by chronic heavy drinking. It is characterized by a painful pins and needles sensation in the extremities.
10. Pancreatitis
Excessive alcohol consumption can cause inflammation of the pancreas which disrupts the digestive process. An inflamed pancreas is manifested by abdominal pain and diarrhea. Chronic pancreatitis is not curable and 60 percent of this disease is caused by heavy consumption of alcoholic drinks.
