|  | Conditions Treatments | Drug Addiction

Fact Sheet on the Effects of Alcohol

For centuries, alcohol has been an integral part of many societies. Beer, wine, champagne and liquor are all alcoholic beverages. In small doses, alcohol creates a euphoric feeling that provides the ability to be more uninhibited with behavior. However, over time, continuous alcohol use can create serious side effects.

  1. Effects at Low Doses

    • In low doses, alcohol is not life-threatening, unless you have a medical condition that does not allow for alcohol consumption. Actually, medical doctors from the University of Calgary claim that moderate alcohol consumption can help reduce heart disease. At low doses, alcohol creates a calming effect. At this stage, side effects include slow reflexes, reduction of coordination and concentration loss. Low dose blood alcohol levels are generally considered to be .01 to .03.

    Effects at Medium Doses

    • The difference between doses is different for each drinker. How fast your body reacts to alcohol varies based on your body size, weight, age, metabolism and the general health of your organs. Combining other drugs can affect how your body reacts to alcohol. At medium doses, your body's central nervous system begins to shut down. At this stage, side-effects include slurred speech, drowsiness, altered emotions and sensory loss. Medium dose blood alcohol levels are generally considered to be .04 to .07.

    Effects at High Doses

    • The definition of a highly intoxicated person varies based on whom you consult. However, American law enforcement agencies define intoxication as a person with a blood alcohol level of .08 percent or higher. Continuous drinking after reaching a blood alcohol level of .08 can lead to serious side-effects, including serious loss of concentration and coordination, difficulty breathing and vomiting. Excessive drinking at this point can lead to alcohol poisoning. The effects of alcohol poisoning include permanent brain damage, alcohol poisoning, unconsciousness, coma and, ultimately, death.

    Health Effects

    • Over time, continuous alcohol use begins to have an adverse affect on the body. Alcohol consumption directly affects the brain, spinal cord and heart. The liver must work overtime to metabolize alcohol in your blood stream. Long-term effects of alcohol abuse include arthritis, heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, nervous disorders, cancer, hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia and psychological disturbances, such as depression, anxiety and insomnia. Continuous alcohol use also creates a dependency on alcohol, which can lead to alcoholism and addiction.

    Social Effects

    • Over time, alcohol use can affect your relationships. Alcohol dependence creates the mentality that your body cannot function without alcohol. Alcohol becomes a motivator to do anything, while you begin to neglect other responsibilities. Alcoholics often report instances of poor performance at work or school, legal issues, withdrawal from family and friends, and constant emotional imbalances, such as mood swings, loss of control, loss of interest and violent rages.

Drug Addiction - Related Articles