Drinking and driving is deadly combination that can result in very dire circumstances. According to statistics from the National Institute of Health (NIH), about 40% of traffic deaths are due to alcohol. Even more astonishing, the same statistics show that 70% of the individuals involved in alcohol-related crashes have alcohol problems, although they have never been arrested for it. When caught, a person may have to have a breathalyzer installed in their car. These devices, made by companies like Low Cost Interlock, are a deterrent to people who have been caught drinking and driving. The device prevents the car from starting until the driver blows into the device and passes the test. While not perfect, devices like these are saving lives every day.
Regardless of if you are driving or not, alcohol’s effect on the body in the short term or long term cannot be denied. Once you begin drinking on a heavy basis, the closer you are inching towards serious health issues. Liver disease is one of the most common types health issues that can arise due to heavy drinking. Liver is the organ responsible for breaking down alcohol. Once heavy amounts of alcohol continue into the blood and bile, liver disease happens.
Additionally, there can be other health issues such as gastritis, mouth cancer, heart problems and even malnutrition. But the most devastating health risk is how alcohol affects the brain. There are a number of factors that determine how alcohol affects the brain:
- How long have you been drinking?
- What age did you start?
- Age, gender, genetics. Alcoholism in the family?
- Are there already health issues?
Alcohol goes directly to the brain. In some cases, it can happen only after a drink or two. In the short term, you will experience slurred speech, vision problems, slow reaction time and unsteadiness on your feet. Over time, continued heavy drinking leads to the other aforementioned health issues. Even if you don’t die, you could find yourself in a very debilitating condition that requires lifelong care. If you or someone you care about has an addiction to alcohol, it might be beneficial to see how a rehab facility works, and if it is the right step for you or your loved one.
Unfortunately, there are a number of females who drink heavily while pregnant. This can have devastating effects on a fetus. Children suffering from Fetal Alcohol Syndrome can also suffer from a number of debilitating conditions throughout their lives.
Individuals who binge drink or suffer from acute alcoholism should never get behind the wheel. The end results can be devastating for them and others who are unfortunate enough to cross their path. When you drink and drive, you have impaired judgement. The fact that you are drunk and feel that you can safely operate a vehicle proves it. Thankfully, many police officers and state troopers are constantly on the lookout for drivers swerving, weaving and doing other things letting them know you are driving drunk. You will be arrested and taken off the road before you do damage to yourself or someone else.
The bottom line is, the effects alcohol can have on your health is not worth the risk. Not only are you setting yourself up for a lifelong battle with health issues, one bad mistake and you could also end up in jail. If you are in need of health, find a good alcohol abuse treatment center for help.