“Is alcohol a drug?” This is a question that many people ask. While some people consider alcohol a drug, others don’t because it’s so acceptable in society. Most people see alcohol consumption as normal. It’s in advertisements, sponsorships, and in many things in pop culture. Despite the normality of alcohol, the truth, despite its widespread use, might shock people.

At Santé Center for Healing, we are committed to providing the best possible care for our clients. We have experience helping clients overcome addictions to a range of substances, including alcohol. We also offer a comprehensive range of services for those seeking treatment. To learn more about the alcohol addiction treatment programs we offer, please contact Santé Center for Healing today at 866.238.3154.

Is Alcohol a Drug?

To fully answer this question, it’s important for people to understand what makes a beverage alcoholic. Drinks made via ethanol or alcohol fermentation fall into this category. In fact, companies make alcohol in the same way regardless of the alcohol content.

To answer the question, yes, alcohol is a drug. Experts classify alcohol as a depressant. Usually, a depressant helps calm nerves and relax muscles. While prescription depressants have medical uses, depressants can also damage the brain and body.  Depressants directly interact with the flow of blood to the muscles and nerves. Interacting with blood flow also makes depressants interact with the overall central nervous system.

One of the primary risks of using alcohol is the chance of addiction. Many people who use alcohol continue using it, even when it negatively impacts their life, causing problems such as:

  • Drinking more alcohol than they intended to in a short period of time
  • Being unable to complete necessary responsibilities
  • Being unable to maintain relationships with friends and loved ones
  • Engaging in increasingly risky behavior, such as unprotected sex or driving while intoxicated
  • Developing mental health concerns, such as depression or anxiety

However, addiction isn’t the only impact of this drug.

How Alcohol Affects the Cardiovascular System

Alcohol specifically targets the cardiovascular system. In fact, depressants cause the vasodilation of blood vessels. This widening of blood vessels causes an increase in heart rate, which can lead to symptoms such as:

  • More headaches
  • Tremors
  • Dizziness
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Increased risk of heart attack or stroke

Also, despite the urban myth that drinking keeps you warm, it actually makes people’s body temperatures drop. As the blood vessels widen, the body experiences heat loss. The widening of blood cells also makes people appear flush and start sweating.

How Alcohol Affects the Brain

You’ve likely witnessed the motions and mannerisms of people who drink too much. They start to lose balance and coordination. Losing these motor skills is also an effect that alcohol has on the brain. Beyond reflexes, vision, and skills, alcohol also affects reasoning abilities, judgment, and inhibitions.

When consuming alcohol, people may experience memory loss or blackouts as well. Once again, memory loss is a direct result of how alcohol affects the brain. People often make bad choices when they drink, which can put themselves and others in harm’s way.

Digestive Problems

Another common issue that people have after drinking a lot is digestive problems. These individuals often throw up, but few people know why. They assume that the body naturally vomits to get rid of too much alcohol.

However, alcohol increases acidity in the stomach, which upsets the stomach and intestines. Experts suggest that the increase in acid levels is why people have diarrhea or throw up after drinking.

Get Help for Alcohol Addiction at Santé Center for Healing

At Santé Center for Healing, we take addiction very seriously. We know how difficult it is to overcome alcohol addiction. Because of this, we strive to provide different levels of care to ensure that you remain comfortable during your rehab experience. Some of the programs that we offer include:

  • Dual diagnosis treatment
  • Poly-addiction treatment
  • Intensive outpatient programs
  • Medical detox program
  • A family therapy program to address co-dependency

Now you know the answer to the question, “Is alcohol a drug?” Therefore, it’s time to do something. Don’t let alcohol addiction ruin your life. Get the help that you need at a rehab center that has an excellent track record. Contact us today at 866.238.3154 for more information.