Summary Alcohol poisoning is a medical emergency that happens when high levels of alcohol shut down vital functions like breathing and heart rate. It’s different—and far more dangerous—than just being drunk. BAC levels as low as 0.08% can impair judgment and coordination, but levels above 0.40% can cause coma or death. Signs of alcohol poisoning … Read more
Summary Long-term alcohol use can shrink brain volume, damage white matter, and impair memory and learning—all of which may affect your cognition. A major study found that alcohol use disorders were the leading modifiable risk factor for early-onset dementia, linked to nearly 40% of cases. Possible mechanisms behind alcohol-related dementia include excitotoxicity, neuroinflammation, acetaldehyde toxicity, … Read more
Summary Alcohol can raise or lower your heart rate depending on the dose, timing, and your individual response. Short-term effects may include a racing or irregular heartbeat, while long-term use can reduce your heart rate variability (HRV) and increase the risk of chronic cardiovascular issues. Alcohol can also slow your heart rate dangerously by affecting … Read more
