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Effects of Alcohol on Your Body

Written by: Kristina Ackermann
Edited by: Kara Stevens
Updated Jul 31, 2025
Those who drink to excess, frequently misuse alcohol, or are diagnosed with an alcohol use disorder (AUD) may be at risk for significant long-term health conditions. Indeed, of the nearly 14.4 million Americans who had a diagnosable AUD in the year 2017, only an estimated 1.1 million received dedicated substance use treatment.(1,2) Whether you’re actively struggling with alcohol addiction or are concerned about your alcohol use, it’s important to understand the health risks of alcohol.

Short-Term Effects of Alcohol on the Body

Although a person may not be abusing alcohol regularly, they can still experience its short-term effects on the mind and body. The liver can metabolize about one standard drink of alcohol per hour.3 However, this can vary depending on a number of factors, including the individual’s age, weight, liver function, and gender.9 Typically, consuming more than one beverage per hour can lead to intoxication, raising an individual’s blood alcohol content (BAC) with each drink.3

The effects of alcohol can range from mild, such as skin flushing, to more severe symptoms such as passing out or vomiting.

stress insomnia and alcoholism

Long-Term Effects Of Alcohol on the Body

Drinking too much over time can cause chronic physical and mental health issues. Heavy drinking can cause or contribute to liver damage, cardiovascular disease, and multiple types of cancer.5,7,13

What is Binge Drinking?

Binge drinking is a dangerous practice that can cause physical harm. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) classifies binge drinking as a drinking pattern that leads to a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of 0.08 g/dL and above.6 For adult women, that’s typically around 4 drinks (5 for adult men) within a couple of hours of each other.6 

alcohol poisoning treatment

Alcohol Poisoning

Binge drinking can lead to alcohol poisoning. Alcohol poisoning occurs when the body has consumed more alcohol in a short period of time than it can process. The toxic effects of alcohol overwhelm the body and can lead to impairment and some even more serious medical side effects, including death in severe cases.

It is extremely important to call 911 if you feel a person is experiencing alcohol poisoning. Alcohol poisoning can cause permanent brain damage and even death. A person’s BAC can keep rising after they stop drinking and even after they pass out.18

Effects of Alcoholism on the Body

Alcoholism and chronic heavy drinking are associated with many serious health problems.5

drinking while pregnant

depression and alcohol

Psychological Effects of Alcohol

When it comes to the brain, alcohol acts as a depressant to the CNS. However, it can have inconsistent effects, exciting users under some conditions and sedating users under other conditions. Excitement, typically at lower doses, may be due to alcohol suppressing the inhibitory parts of the brain.

Alcohol use disorder is also linked to several mental illnesses.

Finding Treatment for Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol use disorders occur on a spectrum, and each person is unique. If you are ready to find treatment options for yourself or a loved one, get started with our free rehab locator tool. Find addiction treatment facilities that take insurance, inpatient rehabs, outpatient rehab programs, and more.