Alcohol and Its Effects

CirrhosisBuild up of scar tissue in the liver blocking flow of blood.

Scar tissue replaces healthy tissue.

Brain damagePermanent damage from repeated abuse/dehydration and lack of oxygen.

Dementia is a decrease in brain function that leads to personality change & memory loss.

UlcersAlcohol can damage the esophagus & stomach.

Alcohol can cause irritation & deterioration of the stomach lining.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)FAS is a set of physical & mental defects that affect a fetus that has been exposed to alcohol during pregnancy.

FAS is the leading preventable cause of retardation in our country.

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)

Some characteristics: small birth size curved spine deformed ribs webbed fingers facial abnormalities heart defects learning disabilities hyperactivity irritability

AlcoholismAlcoholism occurs when a person showssigns of physical addiction to alcohol (for example, tolerance and withdrawal) and continues to drink, despite problems withphysical health, mental health, and social,

family, or job responsibilities. Alcohol may

come to dominate the person's life and relationships. ~NIH

Alcoholism Problem Drinking – Drinker cannot

drink alcohol in moderation or at appropriate times.

Tolerance – Drinker needs more alcohol to produce the same effect.

Dependence – Drinker’s body needs alcohol to function normally.

Alcoholism – Drinker has lost control of his/her drinking behavior.

Alcoholism – Physical Signs

A need for increasing amounts of alcohol to get drunk or achieve the desired effect (tolerance)

Memory lapses (blackouts) after heavy drinking

Withdrawal symptoms when alcohol use is stopped

Alcohol related illnesses

Alcoholism – Behavior

Continuing to drink even when health, work or family are harmed

Drinking alone Episodes of violence when drinking Hostility when confronted about drinking Lack of control over drinking -- unable to stop or reduce

intake Making excuses to drink Missing work or school, or a decrease in performance No longer taking part in activities because of alcohol Need for daily or regular alcohol use to function Neglecting to eat Not caring for physical appearance Secretive behavior to hide alcohol use Shaking in the morning