Brain Damage from Alcohol: It's More Serious Than a Hangover
Scientific research has shown that even moderate alcohol consumption can have serious health consequences. Even just two drinks a day can lead to earlier and more intense brain hemorrhages. Those who drink heavily tend to experience brain bleeds at a younger age and the hemorrhages are larger and involve more of the deep brain. To maintain brain and cardiovascular health, it's suggested to limit alcohol intake to three drinks per week.
The Hidden Risks of "A Few Drinks"
While many people enjoy unwinding with a drink or two, the harm caused by alcohol can extend far beyond the next morning's hangover. Every year worldwide, alcohol is responsible for 2.6 million deaths. The harm starts with the first sip and can escalate to a brain bleed with excessive drinking. What's shocking is that the threshold for 'excessive' is lower than most would guess.
Recently, a study found that excessive alcohol consumption can lead to severe brain bleeds and long-term brain damage at a younger age. The results of this study were published in a renowned medical journal.
The Dangerous Link Between Alcohol and Brain Bleeds
According to the study, excessive alcohol consumption can cause lasting damage to the brain vessels due to severe brain bleeds. The research involved patients treated for brain bleeds at a major hospital.
One of the most lethal and disabling conditions known to humans is a brain bleed. These occur suddenly, cause significant harm, and often leave patients with life-altering disabilities. Recovery from this condition is one of the most challenging.
Understanding Brain Bleeds
A brain bleed, also known as an intracerebral hemorrhage or hemorrhagic stroke, happens when a blood vessel inside the brain ruptures. This condition is fatal for about 50% of people, while 30% are left severely disabled. Only 20% of those who suffer a brain bleed can live independently a year later.
To understand the impact of excessive alcohol consumption on brain bleeds, the researchers studied 1,600 patients treated between 2003 and 2019. These patients all had a brain bleed that was not due to injury or trauma. Using CT and MRI scans, the researchers examined the size, location, and signs of damage to the brain's small blood vessels.
Findings of the Study
About 7% of those who suffered a brain bleed reported consuming three or more drinks daily. Heavy drinkers were younger when the bleed occurred (average age 64 compared to 75). Their brain bleeds were 70% larger and were twice as likely to be deep inside the brain or spread into the brain's fluid-filled spaces. Even lower alcohol intake, two drinks a day, was associated with a younger age of onset of a brain bleed.
Furthermore, heavy drinkers had lower platelet counts (cell fragments that help blood clot) and higher blood pressure upon arrival at the hospital. They also showed damage to the tiny blood vessels in their brains, which can lead to dementia, memory loss, and walking problems. These conditions significantly increase the risk of brain bleeds.
Preventing Brain Bleeds
Researchers theorize that heavy drinking raises blood pressure, damaging the small blood vessels in the brain. This makes them weak and more prone to leak or burst. When platelet counts are low, it's harder for the body to stop bleeding. Drinking less could help to significantly reduce the risk of a brain bleed.
It's now clear that heavy drinking leads to larger, earlier brain bleeds. Reducing or stopping alcohol use can lower this risk. Even for those at relatively low risk of brain bleeds, limiting alcohol consumption to no more than three drinks per week can protect against all types of stroke and help maintain brain and cardiovascular health.
Reminder: This article is for informational purposes only. It's not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new medication or treatment, or before changing your diet or supplement regimen.