According to a recent report from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the gender gap between male and female drinking rates is slowly but surely closing. Why is this the case, you may ask? The fact of the matter is that men are consuming smaller quantities of alcohol, while women are drinking much more booze than before. While there is no arguing the benefits of alcohol (in tiny amounts) in the prevention of heart disease, keep in mind that women don’t process alcohol as effectively as their male counterparts, a problem that can lead to some dangerous health issues down the road.
Sicknesses Triggered by Alcohol Abuse
When women consume more than the standard portion for each type of alcohol drink (for example, 5 ounces for wine and 1.5 ounces of 80-proof liquor), they are putting themselves at risk for a variety of mental health problems and dangerous illnesses, including:
- Liver disease/inflammation: More women are more susceptible to developing liver disease than men, even if these women have consumed smaller quantities of booze than their male counterparts. In some cases, women will suffer from cirrhosis, a degenerative condition where the liver starts to deteriorate.
- Breast cancer: A single extra daily drink of alcohol can increase the risk of developing breast cancer, while two to five extra drinks can double this prospect.
- Pregnancy issues: Did you know that 10% of pregnant women consume alcohol? When expectant mothers consume booze, this substance flows through their bloodstream and into their babies’ systems. Mothers who drink while pregnant are increasing the possibility of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS).
- Heart disease: Women who drink alcohol in moderation may decrease their risk of heart disease, but problem drinking makes that risk skyrocket.
- Damage to the brain: Another unfortunate side effect problem drinking in women is brain damage, particularly affecting memory recall and learning capabilities.
- Addiction: Of course, one of the most unfortunate side effects of problem-drinking is alcoholism, a form of addiction.
Failure to Admit the Obvious
Unfortunately, research has shown that a large number of women refuse to admit that they are suffering from problem drinking. As a result, many of these ladies don’t get the help they need, which can trigger these harmful sicknesses.
If you believe you have an alcohol problem, do not keep it a secret; get help before you become a full-blown addict.
Seeking Treatment for Alcohol Abuse or Alcoholism
Alcohol withdrawal can easily be one of the most frightening aspects of healing. During the course of the recovery process, you will suffer from minor to severe symptoms that may include night sweats, hallucinations, fevers, anxiety, and sadness, but always remember that you can find the strength to overcome these problems. However, you must always seek medical attention when you have decided to cut ties with alcohol, as the withdrawal process can be notoriously dangerous. Never attempt to do this without the supervision of a trained specialist.
If you are suffering from a severe case of alcoholism or alcohol abuse, 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 of alcohol withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
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.
