Alcohol

Abstract

Alcohol affects brain activity in various ways. It has both short-term and long-term effects. It causes slurred speech, short-term memory dysfunctions hallucinations, etc. by timing the activity of neuronal cells. Moreover, it causes teratogenic effects in the fetus ifthe mother is consuming alcohol during pregnancy. Alcohol can damage the brain cells, cause a lowering of serotonin levels, and higher GABA levels, cease new brain cells to be formed, and cause damage to the blood vessels and nerve cells in the brain. In addition, alcohol abuse causes WernickeKorsakoff’s syndrome, which is due to the lack of vitamin B1 in drinkers. Also, alcohol abuse causes Wernicke’s encephalopathy which is characterised by muscle problems, being confused, etc. Memory loss and less coordination are the long-term effects of alcohol abuse. All regions of the brain, such as the cerebellum, limbic system, and cerebral cortex, can be affected by alcohol abuse. The cerebellum is responsible for the movement of the body, and alcohol disrupts this balance causing emotional and memory issues. Alcohol consumption on a regular basis leads to reduced brain size or a rapid aging process. Alcohol disorder is listed as one of the most prevalent mental health problems in the world.