Physical Effects of Alcohol Addiction on the Brain and Body
Physical Effects of Alcohol Addiction on the Brain and Body
Alcohol is widely used in social settings, to relax, and sometimes to cope with stress or emotional pain. While moderate drinking may be low risk for some adults, heavy or long-term alcohol use can lead to addiction and serious harm to both the brain and body. In this guide, we explain what alcohol does in the body, why it can become addictive, the physical and mental health effects of alcohol use disorder, and how professional treatment at programs like Cardinal Recovery can support lasting recovery.(Source)
Table of Contents
What Is Alcohol?
Alcohol in drinks is a chemical called ethanol, produced when yeast ferments sugars in grains, fruits, or other plant sources.(Source) Once you drink it, ethanol is absorbed through the stomach and small intestine into the bloodstream and travels to the brain and other organs.(Source)
Alcohol is classified as a central nervous system depressant, which means it slows down brain activity and affects how nerve cells communicate.(Source) In small amounts, alcohol can cause relaxation and lowered inhibitions. As blood alcohol concentration (BAC) rises, it can impair judgment, coordination, reaction time, breathing, and heart function.(Source)
There is no completely “safe” level of alcohol use for everyone. Even low levels of drinking can increase the risk of certain cancers and other health problems over time.(Source) Risk depends on how much and how often you drink, your age, sex, genetics, medical history, and mental health.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the first physical signs of alcohol addiction?
Early physical signs of alcohol addiction can include needing more alcohol to feel the same effects (tolerance), frequent hangovers, sleep problems, shakiness or sweating when you have not been drinking, and changes in appetite or weight.(Source) You may also notice more frequent injuries, stomach upset, or headaches related to drinking.(Source)
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