The Effects Of Alcohol Go Beyond Appearance
There are always stereotypes surrounding addiction. Plenty of people believe that they can tell the difference between someone who is suffering from the effects of alcohol addiction and someone who isn’t. They might cite weight gain brought on by drinking too much, psoriasis on the hands, or a telltale red flush of the face and nose. Although these outward signs may be present for some individuals, others suffer quietly and without changes to their appearances, even as alcohol wreaks havoc with their health.
Increased Risk of Cancer Development
The experts at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) warn that alcohol can have various adverse effects on the body. In particular, there’s a possibility that over-indulging can result in a heightened risk of cancer. The most common include cancers of the liver, breast, mouth and throat, as well as of the esophagus.
Other Effects of Alcohol Abuse on Your Body
Cancer isn’t the only potential negative consequence of alcohol abuse. These are some other common physical problems:
- Weakened immune system. Going on a binge-drinking spree can leave you more vulnerable to contracting an infection for a 24-hour period. If you abuse alcohol on a regular basis, you have a higher risk of contracting pneumonia or tuberculosis.
- Osteoporosis. Abusing alcohol can make it difficult for the bones to absorb calcium, which they need for strength. This deficiency can lead to a thinning of the bones.
- High blood pressure. Sudden large quantities of alcohol may lead to a heart arrhythmia, which can be fatal. Prolonged use of the drug has the potential to weaken the heart, which results in high blood pressure. The latter is a risk factor associated with heart attacks and strokes.
Getting Help Now
There’s no doubt that drinking too much alcohol creates problems. At this point, we haven’t even begun to discuss the harm this substance can bring to relationships, families, and the workplace. As bad as the effects of alcohol can be for the individual who suffers from an alcohol use disorder, getting up one morning and just quitting isn’t an option. Addiction is strong, and even the best intentions aren’t enough to simply quit. However, there is help at Stepping Stone Center for Recovery. You don’t have to allow alcohol to control your life for another day. A medically supervised alcohol detox program offers real help that a cold turkey approach can’t match. When knowledgeable health care experts monitor your progress, assist with medical interventions as needed, and keep you motivated to continue, you’ve got a real chance at beating active addiction. After detox, you’ll get help in the form of a multi-disciplinary treatment approach that focuses on your mind, spirit, body, and overall wellness. Even if you’ve tried to quit drinking before and failed, call 866-957-4960 today for a chance at real results.
