Alcohol Lecture II

BrainReaches brain as soon as consumedSlows the work of the central nervous systemThought processes are disorganizedMemory and concentration are dulledDecision making can be badly affected

Short-Term Effects of Drinking

LiverOxidation-changes alcohol to water, carbon

dioxide, energyOxidize 1/3-1/2 an oz. of alcohol per hourAlcohol intake > oxidation = IntoxicationAlcohol circulates through all body parts until

oxidation is complete

Short-Term Effects of Drinking

Blood VesselsAlcohol causes an increase in blood flowMakes the skin feel flush and warm (Sweating)Artificial warmth, greater chance of

hypothermia

Short-Term Effects of Drinking

HeartIncrease in heart rate/blood pressureArrhythmias-abnormal heartbeatsRisk of heart attack/stroke increase

Short-Term Effects of Drinking

KidneysProduces more urineMain reason a person feels dehydrated after

heavily drinking

Short-Term Effects of Drinking

StomachAlcohol is immediately absorbed from the

stomach into the bloodFood slows this process down, yet will not

prevent intoxicationIncreases the flow of gastric acid, irritating the

stomach liningRepeated irritation can cause internal bleeding

Short-Term Effects of Drinking

One of the deadliest and most widespread problem with alcohol

DWI/DUI - .08 legal limitB.A.C- .02, signs are shownFactors of BAC

GenderWeightMetabolismAmount of AlcoholFoodTime elapsed between and after drinking

 Driving Under the Influence

Alcohol reduces/increases:The ability to judge distances, speeds, and

turnsThe ability to judge one’s

capabilities/limitationsThe tendency to take risksSlows reflexesForgetfulness with signalingThe ability to concentrate

Driving Under the Influence

Consequences: DUI is the leading cause of death among teens Each day. 11 killed, 350 injured Not only the drunk driver is at risk

Costs: Driver’s License confiscation Arrest, jail, court, fine Suspension of DL Possible jail sentence (2nd time) Cost of bail Higher insurance rate Lawsuits

Long term Effects Tolerance Withdrawal “Multiplier Effect”

Driving Under the Influence

DefinitionTraits:

Preoccupied with alcoholAfter 1st drink, they cannot promise/predict

what they say/doCannot manage tension without drinkingPersonality changes/memory lapse

 Alcoholism

Stage 1Social drinking to relax/stressBecomes necessary to manage stressIntoxicated regularlyFinds excusesTolerance increasesMight be called a “problem drinker”

Stages of Alcoholism

Stage 2Physically dependant, cannot stopDrink alone/everyday, cravings begin earlier

each dayMore excuses, others are blamedDenies/hide problemResponsibility performance decreases

Stages of Alcoholism

Stage 3Most important thing is the person’s lifeCannot be hidden, and out of controlAggressiveIsolated from friends/familyMalnutrition“Reverse Tolerance” – less alcohol neededDelirum Tremens2/3 of alcoholics get treated

Stages of Alcoholism