Adolescent Substance Abuse Articles
Heavy drinking may lead to an irregular heartbeat
By Staff Writer
The results of a recent meta-analysis reveal that men who consume more than two drinks a day may be increasing their chances of experiencing an abnormal heart rhythm. Though an irregular heartbeat is not necessarily life-threatening, it can lead to fainting, chest pain or congestive heart failure.
Heavy alcohol consumption is known to be a risk factor for developing a possible addiction, among other health problems. This new study, which was conducted by members of The International Scientific Forum on Alcohol Research, provided evidence of a link between excessive drinking and abnormal heart rhythm.
According to their paper, researchers analyzed the results of 14 studies on alcohol consumption, including one by Danish scientists. This study examined 22,528 men and 25,421 women over a six-year period. This research showed a modest increase in the risk of developing an irregular heartbeat among men who had more than two drinks a day, while there was no risk in female drinkers.
Based on the meta-analysis, heavy alcohol consumption may increase the risk of developing an irregular heartbeat. Light-to-moderate drinking appears to have little risk. If heavy drinking is leading to heart problems, individuals may want to seek substance abuse help from an alcohol and drug rehab facility.
