Top 10 Dangers of Alcohol Abuse

Many people may know the immediate dangers of drinking alcohol, such as the next-day hangovers or the embarrassing episodes. But the more people drink the more they endanger themselves and others around them. There are many problems created by alcohol abusers. Some of them are dangerous. Other problems are menacing to friends and family. There are also alcohol abuse dangers that are fatal.

Drinking and Driving

It does not take much to be legally drunk behind the wheel. But the more you drink the worse your impairment, according to the SAMHSA National Clearinghouse for Alcohol & Drug Information. Drinking and driving can lead to death and a lifetime of misery for families.

Mixing Alcohol and Medicine

Alcohol can make you feel drowsy or lightheaded and this intensifies those same effects in many medications, the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism warns. It can be life-threatening when doing mechanical work, driving or engaging in everyday activities. Your ability to concentrate will be greatly diminished.

Domestic Violence

Drinking can cause friction at home, leading to arguments and fights. Violence and even death can result. Alcohol abuse is often a major factor in spousal and child abuse.

Liver Damage

Alcoholic liver disease can occur after long-term heavy drinking. It can lead to cirrhosis of the liver and eventual death. Cirrhosis is not reversible.

Immune Deficiencies

Heavy alcohol drinking weakens the immune system. This not only leads to many illnesses, but it can also interfere with the body's ability to fight off disease.

Cancer

The risks of cancers of the esophagus, mouth and throat increase with heavy drinking. Breast cancer can develop in women who drink daily. Cancers of the colon and liver have also been linked to heavy drinking.

Heart Disease

High blood pressure often results from drinking and can lead to heart disease and stroke. Alcohol abusers often experience heart palpitations and other heart problems during and after drinking.

Pancreatitis

Inflammation of the pancreas may occur following long-term, heavy drinking. Pancreatitis can interfere with the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels, leading to abdominal pain and even death.

Birth Defects

Behavioral and learning difficulties can result from fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) because of women who drink while they are pregnant. Infants may also be born with birth defects. The U.S. Surgeon General has warned pregnant women and women who may become pregnant to abstain from drinking alcohol.

Alcohol Withdrawal

Sudden withdrawal from alcohol in attempt to quit drinking can cause the body to go through detoxification, causing anxiety, tremors, hallucinations and convulsions. It is good for alcohol abusers to quit, but they should go through the detoxification process in a medical treatment facility to help the body adjust and recover.