Heavy drinking, especially on a regular basis, can lead to serious health problems, including:
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Alcoholic poisoning, leading to coma and even death
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Alcohol dependence or alcoholism
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Sexual difficulties, including impotence
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Cirrhosis of the liver
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Pancreatitis
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Stomach disorders, such as ulcers
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Mood changes
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Brain damage
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Certain types of cancer
Order a Free Information Pack from the NHS
Would you like to find out about the hidden health harms associated with drinking above the recommended daily limit and get suggestions on how to drink less?
Order your free information pack from the NHS or get hints and tips by text or email. Just fill in the online form on the NHS website or call 0300 123 1087.
Young People - Drinking, You and Your Mates
Even getting drunk occasionally can have serious consequences. It impairs your judgement and can increase risky behaviour, which could result in:
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Injuries and accidents
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Unsafe sex, which could result in sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancies
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Fights, arguments and relationship problems
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Getting into trouble with the police
For young women, drinking too much increases the risk of being a victim of sexual assault, as well as long term health effects such as increased risk of breast cancer.
For more advice, you can download a leaflet for young people under 25 - Drinking, You and Your Mates: How Does Your Night End?
Even relatively moderate amounts of alcohol can be harmful sometimes. For instance, when you are pregnant, driving, taking some medications, or doing sports or activities that need judgement and coordination.
