01 Jul The Effects of Ethanol on the Heart: Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy

At ultrastructural level, dysfunction on the transition pore in the inner membrane is related to ethanol exposure 111. In addition, ethanol induces mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis pathways with Bax and caspase activation 101. The mainstay of management is providing support, resources including but not limited to alcoholic anonymous and encouragement for alcohol abstinence and address underlying stressors if https://ecosoberhouse.com/ any which requires assistance from nursing staff and pharmacy. The key to diagnosis is a personal history of chronic heavy alcohol use and the absence of other etiologies.

Heart Risks and Chronic Alcohol Abuse: Understanding Alcoholic Cardiomyopathy

• More than 30% of the myocyte ventricular fraction can be replaced by fibrotic tissue, thus decreasing the heart elasticity and contractile capacity 64 (Figure 2).
• Depending on the dose, everything can be both a poison and a remedy, and alcohol is no exception.
• In addition, contractile sarcomere proteins such as Myosin, Actin, and Troponin are also affected by ethanol, causing the functional progressive depression of myocyte contractility, inducing progression to heart failure 56,104,131.

Commonly seen cellular structural alterations include changes in the mitochondrial reticulum, cluster formation of mitochondria and disappearance of inter-mitochondrial junctions. Cardiomyopathy can also be the result of gradual changes in heart structure over time, which could take years. Because those changes might be subtle, you may not think of your symptoms as heart-related. There are a number of options available, but safely detoxing from alcohol is a priority. A rehab facility that offers medications, supplements, and medical supervision during the early stages of recovery will assist in managing withdrawal symptoms. “Sola dosis facit venenum” is an old Latin proverb that means “the dose makes the poison”, a conclusion that defines the basic principle of today’s toxicology.

6. Cardiac Hypertrophy and Remodeling in ACM

• Occidental Berberi is the term used for the clinical scenario caused by thiamine deficit, a situation commonly present in chronic alcohol misuse, and was attributed as the cause of ACM 68,69.
• However, dilated cardiomyopathy can occur without heavy alcohol use, while alcoholic cardiomyopathy is directly linked to chronic alcohol consumption.
• Chronic heavy drinking can lead to long-term issues such as arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), cardiomyopathy (weakened heart muscle), and an increased risk of hypertension and heart disease.
• Furthermore, there are conflicting data among studies regarding the prognosis of the condition, with some showing overall mortality near 60% and others showing a mortality rate of only 19% (Table 1).

This can be understood through clinical observations that highlight the mitochondria as the main target of oxidative damage. When reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced in excessive manners due to heavy alcohol consumption, it damages mitochondrial DNA, resulting in mitochondrial injuries. Surprisingly, the damaged mitochondria not only become less efficient but also increases the generation of ROS that aid the apoptosis process.

People Also Ask

Myocardial depression secondary to alcohol is initially reversible however prolonged sustained alcohol use leads to irreversible dysfunction. That’s why integrating mental health care into your cardiomyopathy Sober living house management is crucial, Horovitz adds, and should be considered even if you haven’t experienced depression and anxiety in the past. We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Reach out to one of our treatment specialists today and find out how to get the best possible care for you or your loved one.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA) and other US-based guidelines, alcohol intake recommendations are provided to promote responsible drinking habits and maintain overall health. The AHA suggests moderate alcohol consumption for those who choose to drink, defining moderation as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. It is important to what is alcoholic cardiomyopathy note that these guidelines apply to healthy adults and should be adjusted for individuals with certain health conditions or those taking specific medications. In addition, the AHA advises against starting to drink alcohol solely for potential health benefits, as the risks can outweigh the advantages. It is crucial to exercise caution and be aware of individual tolerance and personal health circumstances when making decisions about alcohol consumption. Consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice and guidance.

Eventually, the heart muscle and blood vessels may stop functioning properly due to the damage and strain. Another 2023 study, in the Journal of Pharmacy and BioAllied Sciences, suggests that about half of people with cardiac diseases are prone to develop clinical depression, and that includes people with cardiomyopathy as well as other issues like hypertension. The CDC adds that those who had issues like depression and anxiety before a cardiomyopathy diagnosis may find those conditions worsening as a result of dealing with their heart problems.