Medical Health Encyclopedia

Although not traditionally thought of as a medical problem, a 2000 review of studies found that hangovers have significant consequences that include changes in liver function, hormonal balance, and mental functioning and an increased risk for depression and cardiac events. Hangovers can impair job performance, increasing the risk for mistakes and accidents. Interestingly, hangovers are generally more common in light to moderate drinkers than heavy and chronic drinkers, suggesting that binge drinking can be as threatening as chronic drinking. Any man who drinks more than five drinks or any woman who has more than three drinks is at risk for a hangover.

Accidents, Suicide, and Murder

Alcohol plays a large role in accidents, suicide, and crime.

• In a 2002 study, nearly half of all drunken drivers were alcohol dependent, and alcohol plays a major role in more than half of all automobile fatalities.
• Alcohol-related automobile accidents are the leading causes of death in young people.
• Less than two drinks can impair the ability to drive. 
• One study of emergency room patients found that having had more than one drink doubled the risk of injury, and more than four drinks increased the risk eleven times.
• Another study reported that among emergency room patients who were admitted for injuries, 47% tested positive for alcohol and 35% were intoxicated. Of those who were intoxicated, 75% showed evidence of chronic alcoholism.
• Alcoholism is the primary diagnosis in one-quarter of all people who commit suicide.
• Alcohol is implicated in 67% of all murders.

Domestic Violence

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Alcoholic households are less cohesive and have more conflicts, and their members are less independent and expressive than households with nonalcoholic or recovering alcoholic parents. Domestic violence is a common consequence of alcohol abuse.