Drinking alcohol occasionally is extremely common and can be seen as a ‘safe’ way to enjoy alcohol if done in moderation. This may be only drinking during special occasions and events, as well as keeping alcohol consumption to a moderate level. However, anyone drinking alcohol is at risk of developing an addiction which results in heavy drinking or binge drinking multiple times per week. Excessive drinking can cause serious physical and mental health issues. Obtaining an alcohol test is a safe and accurate way of keeping track of your alcohol consumption.
What is Excessive Drinking?
Excessive drinking accounts for all sorts of binge or heavy drinking. Many people understand that too much of anything makes it harmful, however, binge and excessive drinking is an increasing issue within the UK. During the pandemic, there was an increase in binge drinking habits in the over 50s. So, what exactly is binge/heavy drinking?
Binge Drinking:
- More than 4 drinks on a single occasion for women.
- More than 5 drinks on a single occasion for men.
Heavy Drinking:
- More than 8 drinks in a week for women.
- More than 15 drinks in a week for men.
What Are The Risks Of Drinking Excessively?
The problem with drinking is that it does not suddenly pose any health concerns but instead does this over time. This causes damage to your physical and mental health.
Here are some of the risks you should be aware of:
- Digestive Issues
Alcohol is acidic which means it can erode your stomach lining. It can cause nausea and heartburn problems. If you drink excessively, you are at risk of chronic inflammation and ulcers in your stomach. It also puts you at a higher risk of getting diabetes since it negatively affects the pancreas.
- Nervous System Damage
Alcohol affects the communication pathways in the brain, making it difficult for you to speak or think clearly. It can also make it more difficult for your body to physically function and move. In addition, alcohol has been linked to memory loss (often short-term), but in the long run, can actually run the risk of dementia as well as depression.
- Liver Harm
The liver works continuously to remove toxins from your body. Alcohol is a toxin, and too much of it can overburden the liver. Even though minuscule quantities of alcohol are easily flushed out, drinking heavy amounts regularly may cause an issue.
Alcohol can cause cirrhosis. This is a type of scarring caused due to damaged liver cells. This is why, people who heavy drink consistently, are encouraged to obtain an alcohol test.
- Heart Problems
Alcohol can put your heart at great risk of heart failure, disease, and clogged arteries. The consumption of alcohol also makes you prone to developing blood clots, which increase your cholesterol. Excessive drinking can cause difficulty pumping blood to the heart and other organs.
- Conclusion
Excessive drinking is an addiction that can cause many health issues. These problems don’t always show up straight away, and instead, build up over time and worsen the function of the body. It is essential to check your drinking habit and seek professional advice and guidance if you find you are falling into a daily/weekly habit of excessive consumption. An alcohol test can be available to purchase online, as well as in-clinic.
