People hospitalized with alcohol use disorder (AUD) have an average life expectancy of 47 to 53 years for men and 50 to 58 years for women, which is 24 to 28 years shorter than the general population. Despite this, it is possible for individuals with AUD to lead a fully functional life with the help of treatment and support. The condition causes changes in the brain that make it difficult to quit drinking without assistance, so seeking medical treatment and peer support is essential for recovery. Moreover, any alcohol abuse increases the risk of domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and fetal alcohol syndrome.
As a person continues to drink heavily, they will progress through the stages of illness. Melinda has gained valuable experience caring for those seeking treatment for AUD, benzodiazepines, opiates, amphetamine, and combinations of these and many more. When alcohol enters the bloodstream, it slows down communication between nerve cells. The most common cancers associated with drinking are those of the head and neck, liver, esophagus, colorectal and breast.
Unfortunately, many people do not consider the long-term effects of alcohol abuse, such as its impact on life expectancy. Over time, the body becomes accustomed to the presence of alcohol and continues to suffer from its damaging effects. The Keepers of The Wisdom Reflections from Lives Well Lived by Karen Kasey was used to gain insight into substance use disorder. Melinda finds great joy in helping people live their lives to the fullest without being hindered by chronic pain caused by alcohol consumption.
Drinking large amounts of alcohol can increase the risk of short- and long-term illnesses or health effects such as liver disease, pancreatitis, some types of cancer, brain damage, severe memory loss, and high blood pressure. Approximately 20% of the difference in life expectancy between drinkers and non-drinkers can be attributed to death from cardiovascular disease. Research on the effects of moderate alcohol consumption is varied; therefore it is important not to rely on any single study or use these numbers as an excuse for drinking habits. To reduce the risk of alcohol-related injuries or illnesses in healthy men and women, it is recommended not to drink more than 10 standard beverages per week or more than 4 standard drinks in a day.
In this last stage of alcoholism, individuals often have physical and mental health problems.
