If you have been keeping up with medical trends over the past couple of years, you have definitely read about the perpetuated benefits of drinking small amounts of alcohol. Many doctors will instruct patients to drink a glass of wine or have a tumbler of whiskey before bed to prevent heart problems and to heal the brain (as a means of preventing strokes). However, as we have seen, alcohol is not a uniquely beneficial drug and can, in fact, trigger some of the worst cases of addiction on the planet. On that note, though, is it possible that alcohol consumption can reverse any beneficial effects and ultimately trigger brain problems like dementia? Let’s take a closer look and find out.
A Bit of a Mixed Bag
Multiple research studies have demonstrated how men and women who drink too much alcohol are increasing an overall risk for dementia, with alcohol-related brain damage triggering 10% of reported cases. Scans have revealed how alcohol destroys white matter and shrinks the cerebrum, two characteristics of brains plagued by Alzheimer’s disease. In fact, 57% of young-onset dementia was directly connected to alcohol problems. Examples of alcohol-related diseases include Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, memory decline, and problems with visuospatial awareness.
However, in the case of moderate drinking, the tides tend to change. After assessing 3,000 adults over 75 years of age, scientists determined that moderate drinking was connected to a 42% lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and 29% for dementia altogether. Decreases in alcohol consumption among 90-year-old women also demonstrate how a lack of moderate drinking could allow the sickness to take root.
Double-Edged Sword
So, if you ever suffered from alcohol abuse or were once a habitual drinker, there is no real cause for concern on your part. Nevertheless, alcohol is still a potent drug that has a high potential for abuse and can trigger addiction. You must be 100% certain that you do not suffer from any potential for addiction, but do you want to take that risk? If you are suffering from this sickness, you can always find alternative ways to keep your heart and brain happy and healthy.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse or Alcoholism
Alcohol abuse and alcoholism are unfortunate aspects of reality. Imagine the pain a person experiences on a daily basis as they cope with their attachment to a dangerous substance like alcohol. As easy as it may be to attempt to walk away from a substance that has taken its hold over you, though, you have to remember that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. Addiction is not your fault and never will be.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction, or alcoholism or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process detox and withdrawal and guide you through each step of the rehabilitation process to help you overcome your attachment to dangerous drugs and alcoholic drinks.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
