preview

Almohol : The Harmful Effects Of Alcohol

Decent Essays

Alcohol Introduction
Alcohol is a commonly consumed licit substance. Arguably, it is the most consumed substance and therefore, has as immense impact on today’s society. Because it is a licit substance and is available virtually everywhere it is not uncommon for people of all ages to partake in it. However, many people do not contemplate the long-term effects prior to engaging in consumption (Kelly, 2015).
Harmful Effects of Alcohol
Once an addiction is formed it has the ability to create a tolerance. This tolerance specifically takes place within the stomach and the liver. It causes the depressive effects to become naturalized over time (Levinthal, 2014, pg. 226). This is an effect that has the potential to cause a great deal of harm. Someone with a considerable amount of tolerance to alcohol may think that they are not impaired because they are not experiencing the usual effects and therefore, perfectly capable to drive. However, this often times is not the case. Their blood alcohol content is still legally considered too high to operate a vehicle. Alcohol also causes withdrawal symptoms after it is no longer being utilized. Withdraw symptoms can include, but are not limited to, anything from insomnia to frightening hallucinations. Another common issue with alcohol addiction is liver disease, according to Levinthal, there are there different types. First, a fatty liver, this occurs when there are too many fatty deposits within the liver. Second, alcohol hepatitis, which in the inflammation of the liver that can cause fever, pain, jaundice, and much more. Lastly, alcoholic cirrhosis, which occurs when there are blocked blood vessels within the liver and is only curable through a liver transplant surgery (Levinthal, 2014, pg. 226). Unfortunately if the addiction last long enough it also can cause cardiovascular issues. According to Levinthal, “about one in every four alcoholics develops cardiovascular problems owing to the chronic consumption of alcohol (Levinthal, 2014, pg. 226)
Risk Factors of Alcohol
As previously stated above, alcohol is very common because it is a licit substance when utilized responsibly. This can be considered a social risk factor for users because they have the ability to access

Get Access