Alcoholism takes a heavy toll on alcoholics as the drinking continues over the years. Drinking can start out as a pleasant experience, but problem drinkers find that their lives crumble if they cannot stop drinking. Over time, excessive drinking causes severe health problems that can be life threatening and can produce unhappy family lives.
Liver Disease
Inflammation of the liver, or hepatitis, happens to many alcoholics in the later stages of alcoholism. Loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, jaundice and confusion are among the symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic. Hepatitis can lead to cirrhosis, an irreversible disease that destroys liver tissue. Hepatitis is reversible if drinking stops, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Even if drinking stops during cirrhosis, the chances of survival improve and life may be extended.
Heart Disease
Excessive drinking damages the heart muscle, increasing the risk of heart disease, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Alcohol abuse raises the levels of triglycerides, which are unhealthy fats, increasing the risk for high blood pressure, heart failure and stroke. The added calories in alcohol can cause obesity for heavy drinkers and cause heart problems.
Cancer
Alcoholism increases the risk for cancers of the esophagus, mouth, throat and larynx or voice box, SAMHSA points out. Alcoholics are also at risk for developing liver and colon cancer. Women who drink two or more drinks a day have a slightly increased risk of developing breast cancer.
Pancreatitis
Alcoholism over a long period of time can lead to inflammation of the pancreas, or pancreatitis, according to SAMHSA. The pancreas plays an important role in regulating blood sugar levels by producing insulin and helps in the digestion of food. Severe weight loss, abdominal pain and death can result from pancreatitis.
Bone Loss
Alcoholics have increased risks of developing osteoporosis, the UMMC says. Osteoporosis is a bone degenerating disease that often affects the elderly. Bones become brittle over the years for an alcoholic because of the toxic effects that contribute to bone deterioration.
Domestic Violence
Conflict that results in arguments and physical violence often occurs in alcoholic households. Women married to alcoholics are at serious risk for injury from physical abuse, the UMMC says. Children face increased risks of being victims of violence when their parents are alcoholics. The experience causes them to have lower self-esteem and suffer from such disorders as depression, anxiety and stress, according to the UMMC. Many children of alcoholics have difficulty with coping skills through their adulthood.
