Medical manifestations of alcoholism in the elderly

Journal/Book: Int J Addict. 1995; 30: 270 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016. Marcel Dekker Inc. 1749-1798.

Abstract: Alcoholism may lead to a great many physical and mental problems in individuals of any age. Elderly alcoholics often have additional problems resulting from the interaction of age related changes in physiology and ''heavy'' alcohol intake. Some of the more important problems are: Impairment of the immune system with decreased ability to deal with infection or cancer Increased incidence of hypertension, cardiac arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, and cardiomyopathy Increased incidence of stroke Alcohol dementia Increased incidence of esophageal and other cancers Cirrhosis and other liver disease Malnutrition There seems to be no area in which even moderate alcohol intake is of definite benefit, and some areas in which even small amounts are detrimental.

Note: Review JW Smith, Schick Shadel Hosp, 12101 Ambaum Blvd SW, Seattle, WA 98146 USA

Keyword(s): alcoholism; elderly; liver damage; heart damage; brain damage; CORONARY HEART-DISEASE; CARDIOVASCULAR RISK-FACTORS; ACUTE MYOCARDIAL-INFARCTION; HIGH-DENSITY-LIPOPROTEIN; HEPATITIS-C VIRUS; LIVER-DISEASE; SOCIAL DRINKERS; BRAIN-DAMAGE; NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL PERFORMANCE; ATRIAL-FIBRILLATION

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