The Short Term Effects of Alcohol on the Body

 Posted on April 27, 2018 in DUI

Alcohol can have many pleasurable effects on the body, especially at the start of consumption. The consumer begins to feel calm, confident, relaxed, happy, and sociable. However, at a point that is unique to each individual person, alcohol starts to have negative repercussions on the body.

Finding that small window between relaxation and inebriation is difficult. Those who misjudge and attempt to drive home while impaired are at risk for DUI charges, among other potentially catastrophic results. 

The First Drop

During the first sip of alcohol, approximately 33 percent absorbs immediately into the bloodstream via the stomach lining. After that initial reaction, the alcohol begins to make its way into the small intestine, where it slowly seeps into the blood.

Once alcohol makes its way into the bloodstream, it then permeates throughout every cell in the body, including to the skin and lungs which is how others, like police, can smell whether or not someone had a drink or two.

Bodies can only process a small amount of anything before it begins to store the excess for processing later. When you consume too much alcohol, the alcohol remains in the bloodstream and elevates the blood alcohol content (BAC).

Alcohol and Your Body

Every person's body reacts to alcohol differently based on body composition, age, gender, metabolic rate, general health, and a variety of other factors. However, no matter how fast one's BAC rises, even the first drink has a dramatic effect on bodily functions.

Alcohol is a depressant because it slows down the operation of the central nervous system, which includes the brain. Some of the adverse side effects include: 

• Slowed reflexes;
• Mood swings;
• Reduced coordination;
• Difficulty concentrating;
• Irrational thoughts;
• Poor judgment;
• Slurred speech;
• Impaired memory recall; and
• Decreased motor functions.

Alcohol and the Road

It should go without saying, but alcohol and driving do not pair well together. However, statistics show that even with this common knowledge, two out of three people will be involved in a DUI-related accident within their lifetime. In 2012, a staggering amount —29.1 million people — admitted to drinking and driving.  In court, many judges make examples of DUI cases by punishing the accused with maximum penalties.

If you face DUI charges, a Wheaton, IL DUI defense attorney can help. The lawyers at Davi Law Group, LLC have the unique experience of prior criminal prosecutors, giving their clients the best possible defense. Call us at 630-580-6373 to schedule your initial consultation.

Sources:

https://www.ncadd.org/about-addiction/driving-while-impaired-alcohol-and-drugs

https://www.quitalcohol.com/the-truth-about-what-alcohol-does-to-your-body.html