We often talk about alcohol and hangovers. We joke about weekend drinks and late-night parties. But what about the damage that builds up quietly inside the body? The damage you cannot feel until it becomes serious? That’s the scary part many people ignore. And according to experts, this silent damage can change your life before you even realise what is happening.
In her latest awareness video, AIIMS doctor Priyanka Sehrawat explains why we need to be more alert. She says that stomach pain may only show up after scans or tests. But alcohol can trigger silent changes in the body much earlier. These changes do not always give clear symptoms, and by the time you notice them, treatment may become difficult.
Alcohol Side Effects That Attack Silently
One major silent effect is on the brain. Alcohol slowly weakens the part that controls balance. This happens over the years, not overnight. After around 10 years, a person may start walking unsteadily or leaning to one side. They might not even notice it at first, but the chances of falling increase sharply. This is the kind of body change many people never connect to drinking.
The nerves also suffer. Dr Sehrawat says alcohol dries out nerves and can cause long-term nerve damage. This damage is often irreversible. That means once the nerves are affected, they may not fully recover. Paying attention to early symptoms like numbness, tingling or weakness becomes very important.
Another hidden issue is Vitamin B12 deficiency. Alcohol reduces B12 levels in the body. This vitamin is essential for nerve health and energy. When it drops, new problems start showing up, including weakness, memory issues and fatigue.
Not Just The Liver – Your Whole Body Suffers
While many believe alcohol only harms the liver, the truth is bigger. Alcohol can lead to alcoholic hepatitis. But even people who drink occasionally can face another condition called non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. This can happen due to obesity, high blood pressure, belly fat and high cholesterol, especially high triglycerides. In short, both alcohol and lifestyle habits play a role in liver damage.
The message is simple. Do not wait for pain or heavy symptoms. Our body gives signals early, but we ignore them. Understanding these silent risks can help protect our long-term health. So listen to your body, watch for changes and take care before it’s too late.
