Excessive alcohol consumption over a short period: Understanding its implications, consequences, and strategies for abstention
In recent years, a significant increase in alcohol use and binge drinking has been observed among older adults, according to a 2018 meta-analysis. This trend is raising alarm bells as it contributes to the rising rates of alcohol-related illnesses and deaths.
Regular binge drinking, a pattern of excessive drinking, poses several risks. It increases the risk of developing liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis. A 2017 study suggests that binge drinking may also be an early risk factor for developing alcohol use disorder (AUD).
The long-term effects of binge drinking are particularly concerning for older adults. Alcohol worsens age-related declines in cognition, motor skills, and balance, increasing the risk of confusion, poor coordination, and falls. These risks are more dangerous in older adults due to normal aging processes.
Regular alcohol use also fragments sleep, worsening other chronic conditions like sleep apnea and hypertension. This impairment in overall health can be more pronounced in older adults.
Heavy or binge drinking significantly raises the risk of alcohol-related liver disease, which has doubled over the past two decades in the U.S., and remains a leading cause of liver-related death. Older adults often take multiple medications that can interact adversely with alcohol, increasing toxicity and side effects.
Binge drinking in older adults also exacerbates chronic conditions such as cognitive decline, sleep disturbances, hypertension, and liver disease. Physiological changes with aging, slower alcohol metabolism, existing comorbidities, and medication interactions amplify these negative effects, leading to more severe long-term health risks than in younger populations.
The good news is that help is available for those struggling with binge drinking. People can talk with their doctor, find activities to replace binge drinking, set limits on drinking, or consider quitting drinking altogether and joining support groups or programs. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline is a free, 24-hour service that connects callers with local resources such as counseling services, support groups, and treatment facilities.
It's important to note that the body absorbs alcohol at different rates, depending on sex, age, and body size. Over a 2-hour binge drinking period, it typically takes four drinks for women and five or more drinks for men to reach a BAC of 0.08%, the legal limit in many countries.
Binge drinking can lead to several short-term effects, including headache, nausea and vomiting, upset stomach and diarrhea, alcohol poisoning, loss of coordination and perception, impaired judgment, injuries, and violence. Over time, binge drinkers are at a higher risk for severe health problems such as liver disease, pancreatitis, and certain types of cancers.
Digestive problems are a potential long-term effect of binge drinking. Binge drinking can also lead to cardiovascular problems including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Mental health problems such as depression and anxiety are also potential risks. Binge drinking may increase the risk of certain cancers, including mouth, throat, esophagus, breast, liver, and colon.
It's crucial to remember that binge drinking is not the same as alcohol use disorder (AUD), but it does not mean binge drinking is a healthy habit or that it will not lead to AUD over time. If you or someone you know is struggling with binge drinking, seek help and remember that there are resources available.
Psoriatic arthritis, a type of inflammatory arthritis, can be a long-term health risk for individuals who frequently engage in binge drinking, as alcohol impairs the immune system and may exacerbate existing inflammatory conditions. Regular binge drinking may also contribute to mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression, due to its negative impact on overall health and wellness.
