The Cardiac Effects of Alcohol Dependency

The effects of alcohol dependency on heart disease are staggering. Over time, alcohol dependency seriously endangers the heart and cardiovascular system, blocking healthy bloodflow and creating dangerous plaques in the veins and arteries. In fact, alcohol dependent individuals who drink more than three beverages a day remain in the highest risk group for heart disease, creating an epidemic for those with untreated alcohol addictions.

The Cardiac Effects of Alcohol Dependency

Alcohol damages the heart and increases cardiac risk, both directly and indirectly. Alcohol dependent individuals experience increased risk for heart attacks, obesity, high blood pressure and organ damage to the heart itself. Here are just a few of the cardiac effects of prolonged alcohol dependency.

Cardiac Arrest
Alcohol clogs the heart’s arteries and taxes its structural integrity as alcohol addiction progresses. This often results in sudden cardiac arrest among dependent individuals who have been long-time drinkers—particularly in women, who metabolize alcohol more slowly than men do. Alcohol consumption can also cause enlargement of the heart and irregular heartbeat. Furthermore, because of the lifestyle issues surrounding alcohol dependency, many dependent individuals do not receive adequate exercise and nutrition that could reduce the risk of heart attacks.
Cardiomyopathy
As alcohol dependency worsens, dependent individuals can develop a condition known as alcoholic cardiomyopathy. As the heart becomes enlarged, it weakens, possibly leading to death from congestive heart failure.
Hypertension
Consistent drinking raises your blood pressure, leading the body to an undesirable state known as hypertension. Hypertension places incredible stress on the heart, damaging the heart’s walls and weakening them over time, leading to irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) or rapid heartbeat (tachycardia).
Obesity
Alcohol takes a toll on the heart by contributing to mild and morbid obesity in dependent individuals. In addition to its high caloric value, alcohol raises the levels of fat in the cardiovascular system. This can lead to an increase in triglyceride levels—the main culprits in oil and fat creation within the body. Obesity also increases physical stress on the heart, placing alcohol dependent individuals at multiplied risk for cardiac arrest and strokes.