EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL

SHORT-TERM EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL

Depending on how much is taken and the physical condition of the individual, alcohol can cause:

* Slurred speech
* Drowsiness
* Vomiting
* Diarrhea
* Upset stomach
* Headaches
* Breathing difficulties
* Distorted vision and hearing
* Impaired judgment
* Decreased perception and coordination
* Unconsciousness
* Anemia (loss of red blood cells)
* Coma
* Blackouts (memory lapses, where the drinker cannot remember events that occurred while under the          influence)

LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL

Binge drinking and continued alcohol use in large amounts are associated with many health problems, including:

* Unintentional injuries such as car crash, falls, burns, drowning
* Intentional injuries such as firearm injuries, sexual assault, domestic violence
* Increased on-the-job injuries and loss of productivity
* Increased family problems, broken relationships
* Alcohol poisoning
* High blood pressure, stroke, and other heart-related diseases
* Liver disease
* Nerve damage
* Sexual problems
* Permanent damage to the brain
* Vitamin B1 deficiency, which can lead to a disorder characterized by amnesia, apathy and disorientation
* Ulcers
* Gastritis (inflammation of stomach walls)
* Malnutrition
* Cancer of the mouth and throat