Hard facts about alcohol

Medical knowledge about alcohol related heart disease is well studied. Studies shows that ingestion of alcohol in mild to moderate amount is associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular events.

However, drinking of excessive amount of alcohol i.e. 8 drinks/ week have multiple adverse effects on cardiovascular system.

Chronic ingestion of alcohol leads to left ventricular diastolic and systolic dysfunction. Individuals who consume more than 2 drinks/ day are 1.5-2 times more likely to have Hypertension.

Alcohol Dilated Cardiomyopathy is the commonest non ischaemic cardiomyopathy caused by excessive alcohol consumption usually presents with congestive heart failure.

This condition is reversible with cessation of alcohol.

Alcohol consumption inhibits the oxidation of free fatty acids by liver and causes hypertriglyceridemia and increases total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol with increased risk of obesity. Heavy alcohol consumption increases coronary artery disease.

Most common alcohol induced arrhythmia is Atrial Fibrillation (AF). Incidence of AF increases during Binge drinking, also called HOLIDAY HEART SYNDROME.

Best treatment of alcohol induced arrhythmias is abstinence from alcohol.

Incidence of Sudden Cardiac Death increases 2-3 times in persons with excessive consumption of alcohol.

Hence a glass of wine or pint of beer or one to two drink of whisky may not have adverse effects on heart. However, It may still damage the heart to cause havoc in heavy drinkers.

The article has been contributed by :

Dr. T. R. Raghum, MD, DM, FACC, FESC, FICC, FSCAI, Sr. Interventional Cardiologist, Professor of Cardiology, SJICH, The Bangalore Hospital, Bangalore

E-mail: drtrraghu@gmail.com

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the Doctors are their independent professional judgment and we do not take any responsibility for the accuracy of their views. This should not be considered as a substitute for Physician's advice. Please consult your treating Physician for more details.