Short‑Term Effects

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The effects of alcohol depend on how much is consumed and the person’s physical condition. Some common short-term effects include:^1,2

• Slurred speech
• Drowsiness
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Upset stomach
• Headaches
• Breathing difficulties
• Distorted vision and hearing
• Impaired judgment
• Decreased perception and coordination
• Unconsciousness
• Anemia (loss of red blood cells)
• Coma
• Blackouts (memory lapses where the drinker can’t recall events that occurred while under the influence)

Long‑Term Effects

Binge drinking and continued heavy alcohol use are associated with many health problems, including:^2,3

• Unintentional injuries such as from car crashes, falls, burns, drowning
• Intentional injuries such as from firearms, sexual assault, domestic violence
• Increased on-the-job injuries and loss of productivity
• Increased family problems, broken relationships
• Alcohol poisoning
• High blood pressure, stroke and other heart‑related diseases
• Liver disease
• Nerve damage
• Sexual problems
• Permanent damage to the brain
• Vitamin B1 deficiency which can lead to a disorder characterized by amnesia, apathy and disorientation
• Ulcers
• Gastritis (inflammation of stomach walls)
• Malnutrition
• Cancer of the mouth and throat

Updated: 2025