Mega Doctor News
CLEVELAND CLINIC – Millions of people drink alcohol, and while many may know the harm it can cause to their liver, some may be surprised to know it can be just as damaging to the brain.
“It’s been shown to affect certain areas of the brain, namely the thalamus, the hypothalamus, and the cerebellum, as well as acutely the frontal lobe. All of these areas have various specific functions that neurologically would show up. For instance, the frontal lobe, acutely you might make some random decisions that normally you wouldn’t,” explained Christopher Deline, MD, neurologist at Cleveland Clinic.
Dr. Deline said alcohol can also impact your coordination, ability to remember, your mood state, cognition and even cause psychological disorders.
The level of severity really depends.
For chronic drinkers, these issues may be more prominent and more permanent.
So, how much alcohol is considered safe to consume?
Current dietary guidelines recommend women have no more than one drink per day and men have no more than two drinks per day.
However, Dr. Deline said there really is no safe amount.
Alcohol can be damaging at any level.
He also notes that it can make other health conditions worse.
“If you have medical ailments, just something as simple as hypertension, you might want to reconsider drinking alcohol because it can worsen those ailments. Also, some people who have a mild cognitive impairment, you definitely don’t want to be drinking,” he said. “If you have comorbidities, other health concerns or illnesses that you are being treated for, you might want to reconsider drinking alcohol because this could be exacerbating these health issues.”
If you notice you are drinking more than usual or are having a hard time stopping, it’s important to consult with your physician.
