Self-reminder

SHORT AND LONG TERM EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL ON THE BODY

Eyes:
� causes impaired visual acuity, distorted vision and ability to adjust to light (Radford University, 1996).

Throat:
� irritates and damages esophagus
� induces vomiting, bleeding, pain, difficulty swallowing
� may eventually cause cancer (Memorial University of Newfoundland, 2001).

Heart:
� weakens the heart, which results in an inability to pump blood properly
� increases blood pressure, leading to an increased risk of heart attack and strokes (Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission, 2000).

Lungs:
� high amounts may cause breathing to stop, then death (CADAPP, 2001).

Stomach:
� causes irritation of stomach lining, peptic ulcers, inflammation, bleeding lesions and cancer (Algra,1992).

Intestines:
� irritates lining, resulting in nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sweating.
� inhibits the small intestine's ability to process nutrients and vitamins (Memorial University of Newfoundland, 2001)

Liver:
� causes fat accumulation around liver
� leads to its inflammation and destruction of cells (hepatitis)
� results in irreversible lesions and scarring, along with irreversible destruction of cells (cirrhosis) (Alberta Alcohol and Drug Abuse Commission, 2000).

Reproductive:
� decreases testosterone
� increases sexual desire, but decreases sexual performance
� long term use results in decreased function and size of the male genitalia (Intoximeters Inc., 2001).

Source: http://www.upei.ca/~stuserv/alcohol/effectsonbody.htm