Page updated: 20 Dec 2010
Alcohol and drugs
Alcohol and drug use can be very damaging to your health. There is help available in Trafford, ranging from self-help groups to rehab facilities. See the menu on the left for details of these.
Alcohol
Many people drink alcohol. While most would not class themselves as binge drinkers or as having an alcohol problem, having just one or two glasses of wine a night can have serious health consequences.
In fact, many people who end up needed medical attention for alcohol-related problems are middle-aged and middle-class – nothing like the stereotypical alcoholic or binge drinker.
Women are recommended to drink no more than two to three units a day (a pint of cider or lager, or a large wine, is three units), and men should drink no more than three to four units.
Alcohol damages the liver, which is commonly known. However, it can also cause ulcers, pancreatitis, varicose veins and even a form of dementia. Liver damage affects your blood’s ability to clot which means that an accident can cause a serious bleed.
Alcohol is also a depressant, and prolonged drinking can cause mental health issues.
Drugs
Drugs, both prescription and illegal, can affect your physical and mental health. If you take drugs, or are worried about someone who does, there is help available in Trafford. Use the menu on the left to find out what services are available.
Drug use affects the major organs, especially the liver. Taking amphetamines, like speed and ecstasy, makes your heart beat faster which is damaging to its muscles.
Other drugs dilate blood vessels in your body and brain which, in turn, can cause problems for your heart. Risk of overdosing is increased if you take drugs with alcohol.
Visit Frank to find out more about drugs and their effects. The website also has information for those worried about a friend or family member.