Alcohol Facts
| • | In 2001, the Department of Health reported that up to 40,000 people die each year from alcohol related illnesses and 5,000 directly from alcohol misuse. |
| • | 42% of 16 - 24 year olds are considered as hazardous drinkers, which mean they have experienced immediate problems such as memory loss .(1) |
| • | The amount of alcohol consumed by young people aged 11 - 15 years old nearly doubled between 1990 and 2001, going from 5.3 units to 9.8 units per week . (2) |
| • | Approximately 1000 Young people aged under 15 years need emergency treatment for alcohol poisoning each year . (3) |
Hangover
When a person drinks a lot of alcohol they are likely to experience a ’hangover’ which is a combination of being dehydrated and having low blood sugar levels. The best way to combat this feeling is to try and drink as much water as possible throughout the night and certainly before going to sleep.
More serious side effects of drinking alcohol in excess:
Liver Disease
Liver disease can be caused from excessive alcohol consumption and can lead to complete liver failure and death.
Pancreatitis
The Pancreas becomes inflamed and is unable to control blood sugar levels effectively. If left untreated, this can lead to death.
Gastritis
This is when the stomach lining becomes inflamed and prevents the absorption of food properly and can also be very painful.
High Blood Pressure (hypertension)
This can result from high levels of alcohol consumption (regularly drinking more than 3 units per day or binge drinking) will increase the chances of having heart disease or a stroke. As soon as a person ceases drinking alcohol in excess, blood pressure will start to return to normal.
Fertility Problems
Men can suffer from impotence, otherwise known as ’brewers droop’ even after drinking a relatively small amount of alcohol. Excessive drinking of alcohol can lead to a lack of sex drive, a reduction in the size of the penis and less sperm being produced. Women who consume high volumes of alcohol will be less fertile and may find their breasts get smaller.
Neurological disorders
Excessive alcohol consumption often leads to slurred speech, a lack of self control, loss of memory and even blackouts. If heavy drinking occurs for prolonged periods, you can develop brain damage.
Mental Health Problems
Heavy drinking has been linked closely with the development of mental illness, in particular an increased risk of developing depression and / or anxiety.
Obesity
Alcohol has high levels of calories but no nutrients contained, and will lead to weight gain if drunk in excess.
Sudden Death
Binge drinking, especially when a person is not used to it can lead to irregular heartbeats, palpitations and sometimes even death.
(1) National Statistics, 2000
(2) Department of Health, 2002
(3) Department of Health, 2003
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