Long-term alcohol abuse or untreated alcoholism can trigger destructive changes in body chemistry, which can trigger a variety of health problems including poor cognition, a dampened immune system, and organ disease. Even short-term drinkers will experience severe mood swings and memory loss after indulging in too much booze. However, did you know that researchers have found a link between alcohol use and the production of cortisol, a hormone that is directly triggered by stress? In fact, some studies have speculated that this incident might be the reason why so many alcoholics and alcohol abusers suffer from health problems to begin with. How is this possible? Let’s take a closer look and find out some more information about the alcohol and cortisol connection.
Boosting Cortisol
Regarding the theory about alcohol-related health problems, researchers have proposed that the release of the stress hormone cortisol might be to blame. Simply put, cortisol is released by your adrenal glands and serves as the chief glucocorticoid in the body. Whenever people experience overwhelming fear or anxiety, their bodies will produce excessive amounts of this hormone as form of stress-response. As a result of cyclical cortisol production, people will suffer from high blood pressure, impeded bone growth, poor digestion, reproductive problems, and difficulties with healing.
Cortisol from Withdrawal
Keep in mind that cortisol is also produced to regulate our immune system, reward center, cognitive processing, and emotional system. On that note, researchers have also discovered that alcohol withdrawal can also stimulate the production of this stress hormone. Ultimately, as the studies have pointed out, alcohol intoxication can trigger severe stress (which triggers cortisol), but undergoing alcohol withdrawal can create even stronger bouts of stress and anxiety for the alcoholic or alcohol abuser. (Scientists have also speculated that alcohol directly triggers the adrenal glands).
Unfortunately, these high quantities of cortisol can result in severe damage to organs and neurons, which increases the rate of morbidity among addicts and abusers.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse or Alcoholism
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
