Alcohol and blood pressure - remember these tips!

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20.8.2023
Contral Clinics

Alcohol and blood pressure: How heavy alcohol consumption affects health 

Alcohol and blood pressure: A dangerous combination 

Alcohol and blood pressure are two concepts that are not often associated with each other but can create troublesome health complications. Alcohol is a well-known social lubricant, but its effects on health, especially blood pressure, can be serious. In this article, we'll discuss the link between alcohol and blood pressure and provide guidance on how to consume alcohol safely. 

Heavy and regular alcohol consumption can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Alcohol contains ethanol, which dilates blood vessels and causes the heart to pump blood faster, leading to higher blood pressure.

While moderate alcohol consumption may be safe, excessive and persistent consumption can lead to hypertension (i.e. high blood pressure). 

High blood pressure and alcoholism: Risks and consequences 

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is one of the biggest risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Alcohol can also cause other health problems, such as liver damage and alcohol dependence. High blood pressure can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, and it can also lead to kidney damage. 

Female doctor measuring male patients blood pressure

Alcohol risk limits and blood pressure 

Finland sets recommended limits for alcohol consumption, exceeding which may lead to health hazards, such as an increase in blood pressure.

For men, the recommended limits are no more than 14 doses per week, and for women, no more than 7 doses per week.

Drinking more than this amount of alcohol can cause blood pressure to rise and other health risks. 

How to reduce the risks of alcohol consumption 

If you are concerned about your alcohol consumption and blood pressure, there are several measures you can take to reduce your risk. First of all, it's important to keep alcohol consumption moderate. Secondly, it is important to seek professional help if you recognize symptoms of alcohol dependence in yourself or someone close to you.

Treatment of alcohol dependence can help reduce alcohol consumption and the increase in blood pressure it causes. 

Help is available 

Alcohol and blood pressure are a serious combination that can lead to serious health problems. It's important to remember that help is available, and that the first step towards a healthier life is to acknowledge the problem. Do not hesitate to consult your doctor or other healthcare professional if you have any questions about alcohol consumption and blood pressure. You are valuable and have the right to a healthy and happy life. 

In case you are worried about your own alcohol use or that of a loved one, take a look at the scientifically proven treatment programs that Contral Clinics has to offer. 

Do you suspect that you or your loved one suffers from alcoholism?
Take an alcoholism test!
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