Alcohol and drinking

Short-term

The short-term risks of alcohol misuse include:

• accidents and injuries needing hospital treatment (such as a head injury)
• loss of inhibition (which could lead to unprotected sex and violent behaviour)
• alcohol poisoning (symptoms include vomiting, seizures (fits) and falling unconscious)

Long-term

Persistent alcohol misuse increases your chances of developing serious health conditions, including:

• heart disease
• stroke
• liver disease
• liver, bowel and mouth cancer
• pancreatitis
• mental health problems