Recognizing short-term and long-term alcohol effects will give you a better understanding of the rising use of alcohol in America. Alcohol addiction is continually a cause of concern for Americans in today’s society. It is a legal substance in the United States yet it is still highly addictive and comes with destructive potential. Due to its legality, it is by far America’s most popular mind-altering substance. Simply understanding how alcohol affects you could be the motivator that gets you into treatment.

What are Short-Term Alcohol Effects?

The average person is aware of short-term alcohol effects. These short-term effects, for the most part, are the things someone experiences when drunk. Specifically, short-term alcohol effects will vary from one person to the next. However, there are specific signs of use to look out for. For example, immediate effects can include:

• Relaxation
• A decrease in inhibition and judgment
• Exaggerated behaviors
• Vision and perception effects
• Staggering, slurring of speech
• Sensory and motor skill effects

Through large amounts of alcohol use, many users can also experience a decrease in respiration and become unaware of their surroundings altogether. Overconsumption of alcohol is never a good thing as it can lead to significantly worsened effects or even alcohol poisoning.

What Are Long-Term Effects of Alcohol?

The long-term effects of alcohol will differ for each individual. However, one thing is for sure: extensive alcohol abuse comes with a long list of devastating effects. The long-term effects of alcohol have become a focal point that encourages people to enter rehab. The longer you abuse alcohol, the more likely you are to have problems later in life, these problems can include:

• High blood pressure
• Liver disease
• Nerve damage
• Brain damage, disrupting neuronal pathways
• Sexual problems
• Malnutrition
• Cirrhosis
• Negative effects on cognitive function, behavior, and mood
• Cardiovascular disease

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, over 88,000 people die from alcohol-related causes each year. Furthermore, approximately 49.5 percent of liver disease deaths involve alcohol. This should prove that the damaging effects of alcohol abuse extend well past a hangover the next day. Your quality of life can be directly affected by your alcohol abuse habit.

Alcohol Rehab Center in Asheville, NC

At Crest View Recovery Center, we’ll help you develop the perfect treatment plan for your specific needs. No two people are exactly the same or respond to things the same way. Each individual abuses alcohol in different ways, for different reasons, and has different experiences. The Crest View Recovery Center in Asheville, NC is an ideal location for anyone looking to recover from alcohol addiction or abuse. For more information, contact us today at 866-327-2505 to learn more about our treatment options.