Alcohol abuse is an urgent problem for many modern people, as it is the most affordable way of intoxication. Statistics informs that excessive use of the substance is the reason for “95,000 deaths and 2.8 million years of potential life lost each year in the United States” (Alcohol facts and statistics, 2020). Although alcohol seems harmless to many people, it has a significant negative effect on various vital parts of the human body.
The first negative side effect of alcohol is its influence on the human central nervous system. First of all, large doses of alcohol impair the connection between the brain and body, interfering with the somatic nervous system’s stable functioning. As a result, the coordination of movements deteriorates, as well as the perception of external stimuli, leading to possibly dangerous situations (Pietrangelo, 2018). The second is that it also affects the frontal lobe, which is responsible for perception, short-term memory, and emotional control, which, in the long term, can lead to serious brain deformities (Pietrangelo, 2018). Therefore, the systematic use of alcohol impairs the brain’s functioning, which leads not only to memory issues but also the inability to respond to possible danger adequately.
People who drink alcohol often seem malnourished and actively lose weight. The case is associated with the third negative effect on the digestive system’s organs, particularly intestinal damage and impaired absorption of nutrients (Pietrangelo, 2018). The effect is detrimental since such diseases need to be treated at an early stage, but people often go to the doctor only when they notice a significant deterioration. The fourth effect is that people drinking alcohol often also suffer from reduced immune system defenses. As a result, such people are especially susceptible to viral and infectious diseases, particularly pneumonia and tuberculosis (Pietrangelo, 2018). Decreased immunity leads to increased cancer risk, especially of the oral, intestines, and respiratory organs. Thus, people regularly consuming alcohol are more susceptible to viruses and microbes. It is also more difficult for them to be treated for any diseases due to a weak immune system.
Excessive alcohol consumption leads to a deterioration in the functioning of the somatic nervous system, negative effects and deformation of the frontal lobe of the brain. In addition, it can cause serious diseases of the digestive system, as well as a decrease in immunity. To many people, alcohol seems harmless, however, irreversible changes occur slowly and become noticeable over time, causing serious diseases and health disorders.
References
Alcohol facts and statistics. (2020). National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Web.
Pietrangelo, A. (2018). The effect of alcohol on your body. Healthline. Web.