Its cause is not clear but is probably linked to shortage of B vitamins. Slow recovery is possible with vitamin supplements and general good diet. It is the commonest cause after overweight. People with high blood pressure face increased risk of coronary heart diseases and stroke. Men who regularly drink four or more units a day are also likely to have blood pressure levels high enough to cause concern.
Blood pressure falls once drinking is reduced.
Recent research suggests that people drinking about one unit a day have a lower risk of heart attacks, chronic heart trouble and sudden coronary deaths than either those who do not drink or are heavier drinkers. But this does not apply to every one - only to people who are at risk of coronary heart disease anyway. So for men under 40 or women before the menopause, there is no benefit to be gained by drinking, as they have a very low risk of heart disease to start with. For men over 40 and women past the menopause, drinking one or two units a day may help protect against heart disease. Drinking more than this does not offer extra protection - on the contrary, by raising blood pressure, it increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.