In the brain, alcohol depresses the central nervous system and contracts brain tissue. And yes, it destroys brain cells--which unlike many other types of cells in the body, do not regenerate. Taking in long amounts of alcohol for a long period of time may result in a serious problem with cognition and memory.
In the heart, heavy drinking can cause heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure and heart failure.
In the lungs, heavy drinkers have more pulmonary infections and can be more susceptible to pneumonia and lung collapse
In the liver, liver damage often begins with a fatty liver, and may progress to alcoholic hepatitus. That may be followed by the build up of scar tissues known as cirrhosis. Cirrhosis can change the structure of the liver and choke off blood flow. This can cause varicose veins, which can rapture, triggering catastrophic bleeding.
In the stomach, alcohol irritates the stomach, and can cause gastritis, ulcers, and acid reflux. Gastritis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane that lines with the stomach. Erosion in that lining can cause constant oozing of blood into the stomach or, if a vessel ruptures, major bleeding occurs.
In the kidneys, Alcohol is a diuretic that increases urine output. Prolonged heavy drinking can cause kidney failure.
In the reproductive system, in men, it impairs the production of sperm and testosterone, and can lead to infertility and impotence. In women, the effect can be decreased estrogen metabolism in the liver which increases the amount of estrogen circulating in the body, which can contribute to menstrual irregularities and even infertility.
In the Blood, Prolonged alcohol abuse can cause anemias and abnormal blood clotting, which results in excessive bleeding and easy bruising. It also impairs the function of white blood cells, increasing susceptibility to infection.
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