Drink less, live more: the dangers of excessive alcohol

The consumption of alcohol is a common practice in our society. From celebrations and social events to unwinding after a long day, alcohol has become a part of our daily lives. However, it is important to recognize the harm that excessive alcohol consumption can cause. Many people do not understand the dangers of excessive alcohol, which is why it is essential to educate ourselves about the risks and consequences of excessive alcohol consumption.

Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) is a condition wherein a person’s drinking habits become a cause of physical harm or distress. It is a severe form of alcohol addiction that occurs when a person drinks more than necessary. According to a recent survey, nearly 14.5 million Americans aged 18 years and above suffer from AUD.

AUD is characterized by a combination of the following symptoms:

• Craving or preoccupation with alcohol
• Inability to control the amount of alcohol consumed
• Drinking more alcohol than usual to feel the same effects
• Withdrawal symptoms including tremors, nausea, and sweating, when not drinking
• Neglecting other responsibilities, such as work, family, and social life
• Continuing to use alcohol despite the negative consequences it causes

Liver Damage

The liver is the organ responsible for processing and filtering alcohol from the bloodstream. When a person drinks excessive alcohol, the liver has to work harder to remove it from the body. Continued alcohol abuse can cause the liver to become damaged, leading to significant health problems.

One of the most common forms of liver damage caused by excessive alcohol use is cirrhosis. Cirrhosis is a form of chronic liver disease wherein healthy liver cells are replaced by scar tissue, causing the liver to no longer function properly. Some of the symptoms of cirrhosis include yellowing of the skin and eyes, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel movements.

Heart Disease

Excessive alcohol consumption is also associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Long-term alcohol abuse can damage the heart, leading to conditions such as high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

In addition to long-term damage, acute intoxication caused by excessive alcohol consumption can also cause heart problems. Alcohol can cause the heart to beat too fast or too irregularly, leading to a condition called arrhythmia. This can cause blood clots to form, leading to a heart attack or stroke.

Cancer

Excessive alcohol consumption can also increase a person’s risk of cancer. Research shows that drinking alcohol is linked to a higher risk of developing cancer in several different organs, including the liver, mouth, throat, and breast.

The increased risk of cancer is dependent on both the amount and length of time a person drinks alcohol. The risk of cancer appears to increase with each additional drink per day and is most significant for people who drink heavily over an extended period.

Mental Health

Excessive alcohol consumption can also affect a person’s mental health. While alcohol can provide a temporary escape from stress and anxiety, it can cause long-term harm to mental health.

People with AUD are more likely to develop depression and anxiety disorders. Alcohol abuse can also exacerbate existing mental health conditions, leading to an increased risk of suicide.

Violence and Injury

Excessive alcohol consumption is also linked to an increased risk of violence and injury. People who drink heavily are more likely to be involved in physical altercations, sexual assault, and car accidents.

Injuries caused by alcohol abuse can vary from minor cuts and bruises to severe trauma, such as brain damage or paralysis. Heavy drinkers are also at an increased risk of accidental falls, which can cause broken bones and head injuries.

Effects on Relationships

Excessive alcohol consumption can have a significant impact on relationships. People with AUD are more likely to experience difficulties in their personal and professional relationships. Alcohol abuse can lead to increased conflict, isolation, and divorce.

Children of parents with AUD are also more likely to experience psychological and emotional difficulties, such as anxiety and depression.

The above-listed dangers, amongst others, suggest that excessive alcohol consumption is a risky activity that must be approached with caution. In the next section, we’ll look at ways to reduce or stop excessive alcohol consumption.

Reducing/Stopping Excessive Alcohol Consumption

The following techniques could help individuals reduce or stop excessive alcohol consumption:

1. Set goals – People must set realistic goals to control and minimize excessive alcohol consumption. These goals could include limiting the number of drinks, drinking non-alcoholic beverages, alternating drinks, or taking breaks in between drinks.
2. Avoid triggers – Stressful situations or social events could trigger excessive alcohol intake. People could try to limit time in these situations or avoid them altogether if possible.
3. Seek medical help – Individuals with AUD can seek medical help to aid their substance misuse disorder. Medications such as acamprosate, disulfiram, and naltrexone are used in clinical settings to suppress cravings and prevent relapse.
4. Join a support group – People who struggle with alcohol addiction could seek help from support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous to help them maintain sobriety.

Benefits of Reducing/Stopping Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Reducing or stopping excessive alcohol consumption offers numerous benefits, such as:

1. Physical health – Reducing alcohol intake helps a person maintain physical health by avoiding alcohol-related health risks.
2. Mental health – Reducing alcohol intake could help people manage and overcome various mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
3. Relationships – Reducing alcohol intake could improve communication and trust in personal and professional relationships, leading to improved quality of life.
4. Personal and financial benefits – Reducing alcohol intake could lead to financial benefits such as saving money and improved productivity. It could also help people grow, engage in hobbies and become productive members of society.

Conclusion

Excessive alcohol consumption poses many harmful consequences to an individual’s physical, mental, and social well-being. It is important to recognize the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption to make informed decisions regarding alcohol consumption. Reducing or stopping excessive alcohol consumption can improve health, finances, relationships, and overall quality of life. Therefore, it is essential to be mindful of alcohol consumption to live a fulfilling and rewarding life.