Alcohol exerts various effects on the brain, impacting cognitive functions, mood regulation, and behaviour. Here's an exclusive insight by Dr Vinit Banga, Associate Director -Neurology & Head Neuro Intervention, BLK Max Super Speciality Hospital, into how alcohol affects the brain and its five important areas:
Neurotransmitter Activity: Alcohol alters neurotransmitter activity in the brain. It enhances the effects of inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), leading to relaxation and sedation. Conversely, it inhibits excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate, which can result in impaired cognitive function and coordination.
Brain Structure: Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to changes in brain structure, including shrinkage of brain tissue and enlargement of ventricles. This can result in cognitive deficits and impairments in memory, attention, and decision-making.
Neurochemical Imbalance: Prolonged alcohol use disrupts the delicate balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to neurochemical imbalances. This imbalance contributes to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety, as well as impulsive behaviour and decreased inhibition.
Reward Pathways: Alcohol stimulates the brain's reward system by increasing dopamine levels, leading to feelings of pleasure and reinforcement. Over time, repeated exposure to alcohol can desensitize these reward pathways, leading to tolerance and dependence.
Cognitive Function: Alcohol impairs cognitive function by affecting regions of the brain responsible for judgment, decision-making, and impulse control. This can result in impaired reasoning, problem-solving skills, and increased risk-taking behaviour.
Hence alcohol's effects on the brain are complex and multifaceted, impacting neurotransmitter activity, brain structure, neurochemical balance, reward pathways, and cognitive function.
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