The effects of alcohol consumption on the body

Excessive alcohol consumption has consequences for the body.

Such consequences can take years to treat.

Dark circles

Alcohol can make you sleepy and help you fall asleep faster, but it often disrupts the quality of your sleep.

It disrupts natural sleep cycles and can cause you to wake up during the night, leading to fatigue and dark circles under your eyes.

Cold compresses can help, but the best medicine is a good night's sleep. Try to get at least seven hours of sleep every night, writes Nova.rs.

Swelling and bloating

After a night of drinking, you may notice that your face is puffy and your stomach is bloated. Alcohol dehydrates the body, which can cause puffy eyes.

To prevent this, drink plenty of water throughout the day. Also, alcohol can irritate the stomach lining, leading to a feeling of bloating.

The solution is simple: less alcohol, more water and, if necessary, medications to reduce bloating available in pharmacies, writes Nova.rs.

Rosacea

If your face turns red after drinking alcohol, you may be prone to rosacea – a chronic condition that causes redness on the cheeks, nose, chin and forehead.

Alcohol can worsen symptoms and trigger flare-ups. Research shows that frequent alcohol consumption can increase the risk of developing this problem in people who have not had it before.

Red cheeks

If your cheeks turn red after drinking alcohol, it may be due to a problem with the ALDH2 enzyme, which is responsible for breaking down toxic substances from alcohol.

When the enzyme doesn't function properly, toxins remain in the cells, causing a feeling of heat and redness. This genetic trait is more common in people of Asian descent.

Rash and hives

After consuming alcohol, red, itchy rashes (hives) may appear, which can occur on one part of the body or spread.

This could be a sign of alcohol intolerance, which means your body can't break down alcohol properly. The rash can last from a few minutes to a few days.

Cold compresses and over-the-counter antihistamines can help.

Cellulitis

Excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of cellulitis – a serious bacterial skin infection, most commonly on the lower extremities.

Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, and a feeling of warmth in the affected area. Infection occurs when bacteria enter through a cut or sore on the skin. Cellulitis requires treatment with antibiotics, so it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Sensitivity to the sun

In some people, sun exposure can cause severe burns, blisters, and pain. This hypersensitivity can be hereditary, but it can also be linked to alcohol consumption.

The skin may become red, itchy, and easily bruised after being in the sun. To reduce symptoms, avoid alcohol and direct exposure to the sun's rays.

Psoriasis

Frequent and excessive alcohol consumption can cause or worsen psoriasis - a chronic disease that causes dry, itchy patches on the skin.

Alcohol can also interfere with the effects of psoriasis medications and in some cases make them less effective or dangerous when combined with certain therapies.

Dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis

If you notice dandruff or red, oily patches on your skin, it could be a sign of seborrheic dermatitis – a condition related to immune system problems or an excessive presence of fungi on the skin.

For some people, alcohol consumption can worsen symptoms. Anti-dandruff shampoos often help, but in more severe cases, medical therapy may be necessary.

Skin cancer

Although alcohol is primarily associated with cancer of the mouth, throat, and esophagus, research suggests that it may also be a risk factor for the most common types of skin cancer, writes Nova.rs.

The body normally repairs DNA damage caused by sunlight, but alcohol can interfere with this process, increasing the risk of developing malignant skin changes.

Red palms

In rare cases, the palms of the hands, and sometimes the soles of the feet, may turn red for no apparent reason.

This condition is usually not painful or itchy, but it can be caused by a genetic predisposition, liver disease, certain medications, or excessive alcohol consumption. Although there is no specific cure for this condition, reducing alcohol intake may help relieve symptoms.

Red and stuffy nose

If your nose becomes red, stuffy, or runny after drinking alcohol, it could be an allergy-like reaction.

This is more common in people who already have asthma, chronic sinus problems, or sensitivity to aspirin and other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Your doctor can help by gradually adjusting your body to aspirin, which may help relieve symptoms.