Health Risks of Addiction and How to Avoid Them

Alcohol and drug addiction is a growing problem affecting people of all ages. Although it takes a significant toll on your mental health, it also wreaks havoc on your physical wellness.

Every time you take another sip of alcohol or take another hit of your favorite drug, abuse illicit or prescription drugs, you're putting your safety and health at risk. HIV, sexually transmitted diseases, and liver failure are only a few of the issues you can face while battling addiction.

But you can take control of your life and health by getting treatment for addiction at the Victory Treatment Program in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Stacey Maltman, FNP-BC, is an addiction and recovery specialist offering support groups, IV therapy, and outpatient detoxification when you're ready to start your recovery journey.

Health risks of alcohol addiction

A couple of drinks now and then isn't unusual, and often isn't a problem – but when you find yourself drinking every day, it could be a sign of alcoholism. Drinking may not seem like an issue at first, but it comes with a hefty cost to your physical and mental health.

Alcohol abuse and addiction come with various health issues. The longer you live with alcohol addiction, the more likely you are to suffer health risks such as:

• Hypertension
• Cardiomyopathy
• Coronary artery disease
• Ischemic stroke
• Acute renal dysfunction
• Oral and colorectal cancer
• Seizures
• Delirium tremens
• Liver disease, such as Cirrhosis or Fatty Liver

Physical issues aren't the only problem that comes with alcohol abuse – it also takes a toll on your mental health. You're more likely to have depression and other mental health issues, even if you want to quit.

According to the American Addiction Centers, alcohol is responsible for over 140,000 deaths annually and is the fourth leading preventable cause of death in the United States.