Alcohol Abuse and the Illnesses that Come with It
Although statistics differ from country to country, many folks still die of alcohol related illnesses. But how does alcohol abuse lead to death? Here a few effects of alcohol dependence:
Nervous System
30-40% of all men are estimated to have succumbed to an alcohol blackout during their teens or twenties. This is caused by too much alcohol in the body which in turn cause memory loss when it comes to spacio-temporal orientation. Reduced general quality of sleep resulting from sleep disturbance is a famous effect of alcohol. The legs and arms may likewise feel tingling and numbness. Korsakoff’s as well as Wernicke’s syndrome may transpire separately or together. Low levels of Thiamine, a kind of vitamin B complex in alcohol, is the cause of both. Korsakoff’s syndrome causes memory loss and impedes new learning while Wernicke’s syndrome causes disordered movement of the eyes, very poor balance as well as difficulty in walking.
Gastrointestinal system
Muscular ring loosening is another one of the alcohol related illnesses. This particular one impedes the contents of the stomach from re-entering the esophagus. Bleeding as well as pain results stomach acids flowing flowing into the esophagus. Decreased appetite as well as bleeding and pain may also come as a result of inflammation. Meanwhile, esophageal varices, bloated dilated blood vessels, may result in severe, uncontrollable bleeding. As a reaction to liver disease, hemorrhaging and bursting can ensue. Among the common symptoms of the pancreatic effect of alcohol is diarrhea. Alcohol related illnesses likewise include pancreatic inflammation also known as pancreatitis. Alcohol also prevents nutrient absorption which results in a malnourished state. Consistent alcohol levels also affect the liver where alcohol is metabolized. A fatty liver ensues from an enlarged liver. Normal liver structure as well as function is impeded by cirrhosis or fibrous scar tissue also. Inflammation of the organ (hepatitis) may also be experienced.
Blood
Changes in blood cell types are likewise alcohol related illnesses. Inflammation or abnormal enlargement happens to bloods cells. An immunocompromised immune system results from the reduction of white blood cells which combat infections. This factor is the cause of increased cancer risk in alcoholics. Increased bleeding risk comes as a result of increase in platelets and blood clotting factors.
Heart
Alcohol related illnesses likewise lists fluctuating blood pressure. While small amounts of alcohol might result in a blood pressure decrease, increased intake of alcohol increases blood pressure. One of the coronary risk factors is high fat levels in the bloodstream. Heavy drinking can also increase the risk of stroke as a blood clot runs through the circulatory from the coronary chambers to the brain and blocks a blood vessel in the brain. Risk of blood clot in coronary chambers, weakened cardiac muscles as well as heart enlargement can also occur due to huge alcoholic intake.
Reproductive System
The reproductive system is also affected by alcohol related illnesses. Testicle and ovary size is decreased by alcohol which subsequently affect sperm and egg production that ultimately results in decreased fertility. A child is likewise put at risk of having fetal alcohol syndrome by a pregnant mom who drinks alcohol. The child may have lower IQ, facial defects and behavioral problems.
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