ADDICTION

ALCOHOLISM


Alcoholic beverages are of two types
Fermented - e.g. Beer, Toddy and wine (Red or White). These beverages have low percentage (5-10%) of alcohol.
DISTILLED BEVERAGES
E.g. Rum, Whisky, Vodka, Gin and Brandy etc. Their alcohol content is around 40% or above. The alcohol consumed in distilled beverages is
ethyl alcohol. It is analgesic, anesthetic and sedative (depressant). Alcohol reduces sugar level in the blood. It reduces BP by causing dilation of blood vessels.
The prolonged use of alcohol produces Hypertension and Coronary heart disease. It stimulates acid secretion in stomach and cause gastritis and peptic ulcers. It causes
blurred and reduce visual field(Tunnel vision). Alcohol increases reaction time and coordination between the organs is reduce. That's why the
the 'Drinking and Driving should not be together'. It increases urine output by decreasing the secretion of ADH (anti-diuretic hormone). The main
target organ of alcohol is liver the alcohol changes into acetaldehyde which is utilize by the hepatic cell for energy production. Fatty acid starts accumulating and
'Fatty Liver syndrome' develops. This condition of liver damage is known as Cirrhosis. It is a social evil and involves lot of expenditure. The inhabitations in the society
are diminished and person may start anti social activities.



Tobacco Smoking

Red Indians first started tobacco smoking in America. Tobacco, whether smoked of chewed, caused addiction due to the presence of Nicotine. Smoke also contains
Carbon-mono-oxicde, polycyclic hydrocarbons like N-nitroso-dimethylene, Tar etc. the smoking produces Emphysema and bronchitis. In Emphysema the respiratory surface in
the lungs is reduced due to degeneration of separation of alveoli. The N-nitroso-dimethylene is a carcinogen and cause lung cancer. About 95%of lung cancer patients
are smokers. Out of 10% smoke inhaled, only 1% is finally absorbed, and the addiction, therefore, takes a long time. The teeth are stained and bad breath cause
discomfort to the others. Nicotine is a stimulant and makes the condition of nerve impulse faster. It also causes tachycardia (Heart beat) and increase the
secretion of adrenaline. Anti tobacco day is observe on 31st May.