5 facts about how alcohol negatively affects the heart.
1. Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure, which is a major risk factor for coronary heart disease. This is because alcohol can disrupt the normal function of the cardiovascular system and cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure.
2. Alcohol can cause an irregular heartbeat, known as atrial fibrillation, which can increase the risk of stroke and heart failure. This condition can lead to blood clots forming in the heart and blocking blood flow to the brain, causing a stroke.
3. Chronic heavy drinking can weaken the heart muscle, leading to conditions such as cardiomyopathy, where the heart becomes enlarged, thickened, or stiff. This can reduce the heart's ability to pump blood effectively and can eventually result in heart failure.
4. Alcohol can also contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition where fatty deposits build up in the arteries, narrowing the blood vessels and reducing blood flow to the heart. This increases the risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases.
5. Binge drinking, or consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time, can cause a sudden and dangerous increase in blood pressure and heart rate. This can trigger a heart attack, especially for individuals with existing heart conditions.