Can Alcoholism Cause Multiple Sclerosis?

Can Alcoholism Cause Multiple Sclerosis?

It’s no secret that alcoholism can lead to serious health problems. But can it also cause multiple sclerosis?

According to a new study, the answer may be yes.

The study, which was published in the journal Neurology, found that people who suffer from alcoholism are more likely to develop multiple sclerosis (MS) than those who don’t drink.

What’s more, the risk appears to be even higher for people who start drinking at an early age.

These findings add to the growing body of evidence linking alcohol abuse and MS. While the exact cause of MS is still unknown, it is thought that inflammation plays a role.

And since alcohol is known to promote inflammation, it makes sense that it could contribute to the development of MS.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that everyone who drinks will get MS. The vast majority of people who drink will never develop the disease.

But it does suggest that alcohol is yet another risk factor for MS, and one that should be considered when making decisions about drinking.

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Medically Reviewed By:

Robert Gerchalk

Robert is our health care professional reviewer of this website. He worked for many years in mental health and substance abuse facilities in Florida, as well as in home health (medical and psychiatric), and took care of people with medical and addictions problems at The Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. He has a nursing and business/technology degrees from The Johns Hopkins University.

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