The Long-Term Effects Of Heavy Drinking

Alcohol is a type of central nervous system depressant that can negatively affect every organ in the human body. Shortly after consuming alcohol, it is absorbed into the drinker's bloodstream, where it then travels all throughout the body. Heavy, long-term drinking can lead to a broad range of severe health issues, many of which may be quite surprising. In fact, excessive consumption of alcohol is linked to more than sixty different health issues today. For some of these issues, alcohol is the primary cause of the conditions, but for others, it is one of several other factors that can lead to the conditions.

Start reading now to learn about some of the major effects of heavy drinking now.

Depression

According to an article published by the Addiction Center of the Beach House Center for Recovery in Florida, depression and heavy drinking are closely related. Many individuals who are suffering from emotional disorders turn to alcohol to escape their troubles. And while alcohol may seem to provide some relief, it is only temporary. In reality, since alcohol is a depressant, emotional disorders can worsen over time if heavy drinking continues. Furthermore, since drinking often causes problems with employers and family members, this additional stress can increase such symptoms of depression as hopelessness, withdrawal, low self-esteem, and suicidal thoughts and tendencies.

Keep going for more effects of long-term, heavy drinking.

Stroke

As recent research indicates, individuals who drink heavily have a higher risk of stroke than persons who do not drink. While it is not currently clear as to the exact reasons heavy drinkers are more at risk for strokes, it has been determined individuals who drink heavily tend to smoke tobacco, fall more frequently than nondrinkers, develop blood irregularities, and have various liver problems, all of which can increase the risk for this serious health issue. Thus, it is believed that although heavy drinking may not directly cause this issue, the lifestyle habits of heavy drinkers are likely more associated with increased risk.

Continue reading to learn about the effects on memory now.