1. The Health Risks of Alcohol Use

2. Alcohol is an addictive drug
Alcohol is a depressant, which means it slows the central nervous system

3. Intoxication is the state in which the body is poisoned by alcohol or another substance, and the person’s physical and mental control is significantly reduced.

4. Factors that Influence Alcohol’s Effect
Body Size
Gender
Food
Rate of intake
Amount
Medicine
decrease/increase effectiveness
change absorption rates
change chemicals

5. Short-term Effects of Alcohol
1. Changes in the brain
Though processes disorganized
Memory/Concentration dulled
Judgment altered
Coordination impaired
Increase risk of stroke in young people

6. Short-term Effects of Alcohol
2. Cardiovascular changes
Large amounts of alcohol decrease heart rate and blood pressure

7. Short-term Effects of Alcohol
3. Toxic chemicals are released as the liver metabolizes alcohol
4. Alcohol increases stomach acid production and can cause nausea and vomiting

8. Long-term Effects of Alcohol
1. Addiction, loss of brain function, brain damage
2. Heart damage and high blood pressure
3. Cirrhosis of the liver
4. Swelling of the pancreas lining

9. Binge drinking
Binge drinking is defined as drinking 5 or more alcoholic drinks at one sitting
Binge drinking can lead to alcohol poisoning – a severe and potentially fatal physical reaction to an alcoholic overdose.

10. Binge drinking Symptoms of alcohol poisoning 1. Mental confusion
2. Coma
3. Vomiting and/or seizures
4. Slow respiration
5. Irregular heartbeat