When abused over a long period, alcohol and other addictive substances have additional negative physical consequences on a person’s body. These unwanted consequences are among the many reasons early intervention is always best. The long-term effects of alcohol and drug abuse on the body can be dramatic, and some of these consequences can be irreversible.
It is never too late to seek lasting recovery. No matter a person’s situation, breaking their cycle of abuse and choosing substance-free living can improve their life significantly. Solution Based Treatment & Detox addiction treatment programs are personalized to meet the needs of each client. Reach out today at 833.999.1941 to learn more about our recovery programs and services.
Common Signs of Substance Abuse
Typical signs that a person is struggling with an alcohol use disorder (AUD) or another substance use disorder (SUD) can include the following:
- Increase in use
- Prioritizing use
- Hiding amount of use
- Loss of interest in activities
- Not fulfilling family or work obligations
- Changes in acquaintances
- Constantly making excuses or lying
- Unable to explain whereabouts for long periods
All SUDs cause people to make poor decisions. These choices can lead to various adverse consequences, including relationship issues, employment problems, financial difficulties, and even legal troubles.
Long-Term Effects of Alcohol Abuse
A person with prolonged alcohol addiction is susceptible to many worrisome physical issues. These include an increased likelihood of having heart-related issues. Long-term abuse of alcohol puts a person at greater risk of heart disease and stroke.
You have likely already heard that liver disease is more common among those who heavily abuse alcohol. Chronic alcohol abuse is correlated with organ damage and organ failure.
Long-term alcohol abuse has a powerful effect on the brain. It’s essential to remember that the brain is an organ and can suffer the consequences of alcohol and drug abuse in ways similar to other organs. Of course, a significant difference is that the brain directly relates to a person’s cognitive ability.
Another long-term effect of drug abuse is brain damage. This consequence can lead to cognitive impairment and memory loss. The effects of alcohol on the brain can alter a person’s mood and cause mood instability. Some of the damage caused to the brain over time can be irreparable. Keeping that in mind, a person is most likely able to recover cognitive ability if they cease abusing alcohol and embrace sobriety. As the saying goes, time heals.
Long-Term Effects of Drug Abuse
Prescription medications, when abused, have detrimental effects on the body. Long-term drug abuse typically results in:
- A weakened immune system
- Respiratory issues
- Nutritional risks
- Gastrointestinal (GI) problems
- Potentially severe organ damage
The long-term effects of substance abuse vary somewhat from drug to drug. Those who exclusively or predominantly experiment with stimulants or “uppers” will be at increased risk for somewhat different issues compared to those who primarily abuse depressants or “downers.” All illicit substances strain the body.
Signs Alcohol Abuse has Become a Problem
Unlike drug abuse, social drinking is considered acceptable by mainstream society. However, this is only true to an extent. It’s essential to be aware when occasional drinking has developed into dependence or even a full-blown addiction.
Physical signs that drinking has become a problem can include:
- Increased restlessness and agitation
- Excessive sweating can be a sign of withdrawal
- More time spent in the bathroom
- Recovery from drinking the previous day has obvious physical consequences
- Shakiness or tremors
- Increased mood instability or anger issues
- Racing heart
Suppose you or someone you care about has developed an AUD. In that case, you must reach out for assistance before permanent but unwanted physical consequences become an additional burden in everyday life and the recovery process.
Contact SBT Today to Learn More About Addiction Treatment
At Solution Based Treatment & Detox, we do not judge our clients for their life path or previous behaviors while under the influence. We are proud of our clients for making a healthy choice to seek lasting recovery.
Our medical doctors and mental health counselors have worked with many clients who have struggled with long-term addiction. While there are added compilations for those seeking recovery who have struggled with addiction for a prolonged period, it’s essential to keep in mind that recovery remains entirely possible.
It’s never too late to seek a second chance. Reach out to SBT today at 833.999.1941 to learn more about how treatment plans are developed to assist those who have struggled with long-term addiction. We look forward to working with you on your path to lasting recovery.