Effects of Alcoholism
Short-term alcohol use can have these effects depending on the quantity of alcohol you consume:
* relaxation, feeling of well-being
* loss of inhibitions
* dizziness, unclear judgement
* uncoordinated movements, slow reactions
* blurred vision, slurred speech
* unconsciousness
* death
Long-term alcohol use can cause serious health complications which can affect virtually every organ in your body.
Central Nervous System:
- Impaired senses
- Altered sense of time and space
- Impaired motor skills
- Impaired judgment, confusion
- Blackouts
- Tingling and numbness in hands and fee t
- Hallucinations
- Early onset dementia (from brain damage)
- Mood and personality changes
Circulatory System
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heart beat
- Damage to heart muscle
- Increased risk of heart attack and stroke
Liver
- Swollen, painful, inflamed
- Cirrhosis
- Cancer
- Fluid buildu[
- Liver failure
Gastrointestinal System
- Stomach lining inflamed and irritated
- Ulcers of the stomach or duodenum
- Inflammation or varicose veins of the esophagus
- Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Cancer
Reproductive System
- Reduced fertility
- Reduced sexual performance
- Impotence
- Decreased sperm count and motility
- Increased risk of breast cancer in women
- Early menopause
- Irregular menstrual cycle
For more see http://www.nt.gov.au/health/healthdev/health_promotion/bushbook/volume2/chap1/major.htm
Social effects of alcohol abuse
Alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction have a major impact on society. The effect is seen in decreased job productivity and attendance; increased healthcare costs; and frequently plays a part in the escalation of situations involving domestic violence and violent crimes.
U.S. alcohol-related deaths reported in 2006:
* Automobile fatalities: 41%
* Teenage deaths: 25% of all automobile fatalities
* Homicides: 31%
* Boating accidents: 20%
http://helpguide.org/mental/alcohol_abuse_alcoholism_signs_effects_treatment.htm