Chances are, you are aware of the physical and mental health problems that can result from alcohol abuse. Alcohol abusers are at higher risk for developing certain diseases and conditions such as high blood pressure, strokes, liver damage and a whole range of cancers. In addition, regular excessive drinking can introduce chemicals into the brain that interfere with mental health, leading to higher levels of depression and anxiety and making stress harder to cope with. Most people are aware of these risks, however did you know that alcohol abuse can also impact the immune system and shorten lifespans? That’s right, the negative effects of alcohol abuse can be deeper reaching.
In this article, we share with you the detrimental effects of alcohol abuse.
Weakens the Immune System
The strength of an individual’s immune system depends on several factors, some of which are beyond our control like age. However, factors such as diet and lifestyle can impact the immune system as well, and these things are within human control to some extent. Heavy drinkers have weaker immune systems when compared to someone of the same age who does not drink. This affects their ability to fight off diseases and infections, making them prone to illnesses that can prove to be fatal such as pneumonia.
Shortens Lifespan
With a weaker immune system comes a shorter lifespan. This takes into account all kinds of alcohol-related deaths, from suicide to complications caused by medical conditions. When a person’s immune system is compromised, they are less likely to recover from the same illness as someone with a stronger immune system. In addition, alcohol abusers are more likely to lose their lives to suicide – besides alcohol having the potential to alter certain chemicals in the brain, excessive drinking can be made worse when coupled with traumatic life events such as the loss of a loved one.
Speeds Up the Effects of Ageing
As people age, certain processes in the body change and deteriorate. In heavy drinkers, this process can be brought on prematurely by drinking and be mistaken as normal, natural signs of ageing. Some of these symptoms include medical conditions being harder to detect, worsening health and forgetfulness which can be confused for Alzheimer’s. Furthermore, the body’s tolerance to alcohol can decline with age. This makes older people more prone to getting into alcohol-related accidents such as driving under the influence.
Shake Off Alcohol Abuse through Rehabilitation
Most heavy drinkers know, on some subconscious level, the detrimental effects of alcohol abuse. However, shaking off an addiction can be easier said than done. That is why we at Jackson-Bibby Awareness Group are here to help. We believe that rehabilitative treatment is the best way for DUI offenders with a history of alcohol abuse to prevent addiction relapse.
In light of the coronavirus pandemic, DUI telehealth sessions have temporarily replaced in-person classes. These sessions are conducted via online platforms for a limited time only and will be resumed in person as soon as it’s safe to. If you have any questions about our services, please feel free to check out our FAQs.
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