Wine, as an indispensable medium in social activities, has a long history and profound cultural heritage. However, when it comes to enjoying the pleasures of alcohol culture, we can't ignore the potential effects of alcohol on our health. When there are certain signals in the body after drinking, it may be a reminder that it's time to quit drinking. This article will analyze the meaning behind these signals from three aspects and give corresponding suggestions.1. Five warning signs after drinking1. Flushed or pale complexion
When alcohol enters the body, it is metabolized into acetaldehyde through the liver. For some people, they have less levels of acetaldehyde dehydrogenase in their bodies, resulting in acetaldehyde not being metabolized in a timely manner, thus accumulating in the body. Acetaldehyde has the effect of dilating blood vessels, so it can cause flushing. On the other hand, if the liver function is impaired, the ability to metabolize alcohol is reduced, and the face may be pale. In both cases, the body is telling us that we can't continue to drink.
2. Dizziness and headache
Alcohol can inhibit the function of the central nervous system, which can affect the normal functioning of the brain. When drinking too much alcohol, symptoms such as dizziness and headaches can occur. This is because alcohol interferes with the balance of neurotransmitters, leading to vasodilation and an inflammatory response. If these symptoms occur frequently after drinking, the body's tolerance to alcohol has been reduced, and reducing alcohol consumption or abstaining from alcohol should be considered.
3. Nausea and vomiting
Alcohol has a direct irritating effect on the gastric mucosa, and long-term drinking or heavy drinking will lead to damage to the gastric mucosa, gastritis, gastric ulcer and other diseases. When symptoms such as nausea and vomiting occur after drinking, it means that the stomach can no longer withstand the stimulation of alcohol. At this point, you should stop drinking alcohol immediately and seek help from your doctor.
4. Panic and chest tightness
Alcohol also has a significant effect on the cardiovascular system. After drinking alcohol, the heart may beat faster and blood pressure may rise, both of which can increase the burden on the heart. When the body has symptoms such as palpitation and chest tightness, it means that the cardiovascular system can no longer withstand the stimulation of alcohol. In this case, if you continue to drink alcohol, you may increase the risk of serious diseases such as heart disease and stroke.
5. Mood swings
Alcohol can also affect a person's emotional state. Some people become excited, talkative, and irritable after drinking; Others may become depressed and reticent. These mood swings are the result of alcohol interfering with neurotransmitter balance. If mood abnormalities occur frequently after drinking, the body's tolerance to alcohol has been reduced, and abstinence should be considered.
2. The long-term effects of alcohol on the body
In addition to the five short-term warning signs mentioned above, long-term heavy drinking can cause a variety of chronic damage to the body:
Liver damage: Alcohol is one of the main culprits of fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, cirrhosis and other diseases. Long-term heavy alcohol consumption can damage liver cell function and affect the liver's metabolism and detoxification ability.
Damage to the cardiovascular system: Long-term heavy alcohol consumption can lead to problems such as increased blood pressure and dyslipidemia, which can increase the risk of serious cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke.
Neurological damage: Alcohol can damage nerve cells and synaptic connections in the brain, and long-term heavy drinking can lead to problems such as memory loss, mental decline, and unresponsiveness. In severe cases, mental disorders and neurodegenerative diseases may even occur.
Digestive system damage: In addition to the direct irritating effect on the gastric mucosa, long-term heavy alcohol consumption can lead to an increased risk of diseases such as pancreatitis, cholecystitis, etc. At the same time, it will also affect the absorption and utilization of nutrients.
Suppressed immune system: Long-term heavy alcohol consumption weakens the function of the immune system, making the body more susceptible to pathogens such as bacteria and viruses.
3. How to quit drinking scientifically
For those who are already aware of the physical damage that alcohol consumption takes and wish to quit drinking, the following tips may help:
Be determined: Quitting alcohol first requires strong determination and a positive mindset. Be aware of the dangers of alcohol to your body and be willing to make lifestyle changes for your own health.
Gradually reduce the amount of alcohol you drink: Stopping drinking altogether suddenly and completely may cause physical and psychological discomfort (such as withdrawal symptoms). Therefore, it is advisable to gradually reduce the amount of alcohol consumed so that the body can gradually adapt to the absence of alcohol.
Seek social support: Tell family and friends about your decisions and ask for their support and supervision. Choose non-alcoholic beverages at social events or avoid predominantly alcoholic occasions.
Develop alternative hobbies: Find other wholesome activities to replace alcohol consumption, such as exercise, reading, traveling, etc. These activities not only help distract people, but also improve their quality of life.
Seek professional help: For those who are unable to quit alcohol on their own or who already have severe dependency problems, it is necessary to seek the help of a professional doctor or counselor. They can provide effective programs and psychological support.
In conclusion, when the body shows the above five signals after drinking, we should take it seriously and consider quitting alcohol. Health is our most valuable asset, and cherishing it is the only way to have a better future.