Binge drinking and alcoholism are not one in the same, but share many similarities. Though long term binge drinking is more harmful, the effects of just one binge drinking episode can have negative effects.
Long Term Effects of Binge Drinking
- Heart Disease: studies have shown that binge drinking raises blood pressure too high in a short amount of time. Research found that binge drinking on a Saturday, for example, could put you at a much higher risk for a heart attack on Tuesday. Though binge drinking is episodic rather than chronic and ongoing, the effect of consuming excessive amounts of alcohol is the same. Repeated, if not frequent, binge drinking episodes can damage the heart over time. Binge drinking in younger years can actually lead to congestive heart failure or heart attack in youth.
- Cancer: Alcohol weakens the immune system when consumed in high doses. Binge drinking episodes are like retreats into carcinogenic and toxic chemicals. An episode of binge drinking lowers the immune system to be able to figt off diseases, infections, viruses, and the development of cancer. Binge drinking and other alcohol related abuse has been found connected to various cancers of the throat, brain, and mouth.
- Alcoholism: Binge Drinking does not always lead to the development of full blown chronic alcoholism or other alcohol use disorders. Currently, binge drinking is not considered alcoholism, but it is considered a form of alcohol abuse. There are some drinkers who are capable of having one binge episode and never having one again, or, not having one for many more months. Others, with a predisposition for addiction, might develop alcoholic tendencies and make binge drinking a regular occurrence. Occasional binge drinking can easily turn into daily alcoholic drinking.
- Alcohol Poisoning: One of the most fatal and most common effects of binge drinking is alcohol poisoning. Though alcohol poisoning can occur at any time during binge drinking, the risk becomes higher if drinking progresses. Binge drinking is not characterized by tolerance. However, tolerance can build from binge drinking. Higher tolerance means higher quantities of alcohol needed for intoxication. Too much alcohol content can result in alcohol poisoning or overdose. Signs of alcohol poisoning and overdose can include: vomiting, seizure, unconsciousness, eyes rolled back in the head, blushing, incoherence, and respiratory depression.
If you or a loved one are concerned about the long term effects of binge drinking, call Avalon today for a confidential assessment and more information about our programs. We offer substance use disorder treatment from the tranquil comfort of our private home. Trusted treatment with trusted results is the guarantee at Avalon. 1 888-958-7511.
