3d. Alcohol and Other Heart-Related Conditions

Scientific research studies have examined the effect of alcohol on the heart and cardiovascular system. Alcohol consumption sometimes affects the body in a chain reaction. For example, excessive alcohol can lead to weight gain, which increases risks for a multitude of medical conditions.

Tap or hover over the cards below to learn more about connections between alcohol use and heart-related conditions.

High Blood Pressure

We previously learned that excessive alcohol use (2+ drinks/day) can lead to high blood pressure. For patients who have already been diagnosed with high blood pressure, their doctor may have advised them to reduce their alcohol use, or stop drinking altogether.

Stroke

Many of the alcohol-abuse related conditions you’ve learned about have a secondary effect of increased risk for strokes. High blood pressure, uncontrolled diabetes, being overweight, atrial fibrillation and liver disease are all known risk factors for strokes.

High Cholesterol

Studies have shown heavy drinkers have high levels of HDL, or bad cholesterol. High cholesterol levels were found in people who regularly drank heavily and people who only occasionally drank heavily.

Previous Topic

Back to Lesson

Next Topic