Excessive Alcohol Consumption (Cambridge (CIE) O Level Biology): Revision Note
Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Wines, beers and spirits contain an alcohol called ethanol
It is a depressant drug - it slows down signals in the nerves and brain
Because alcohol increases reaction times (meaning it increases the time taken to react to situations because it slows down signalling in the brain), there are legal limits for drinking and driving in many countries
Effects of alcohol table
Short-term effects of alcohol abuse | Long-term effects of alcohol abuse |
|---|---|
Vomiting: alcohol is highly toxic and this is the quickest way to get rid of it | Damages the brain, causing memory loss and confusion |
Impaired judgment and potentially violent behaviour The user has reduced self-control | Heavy alcohol abuse over a long period of time damages the liver, causing cirrhosis. |
Impaired balance and muscle control | Social isolation, loss of friends, alienation of family etc |
Sleepiness and, when consumed in large enough quantities, unconsciousness |
|
Alcohol is a depressant; it slows reaction times |
|
The liver removes alcohol from the bloodstream
it has enzymes that break down alcohol but the products of the reactions involved are toxic and over time, the liver can be irreparably damaged
In many people, alcohol can be a very addictive drug
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