It affects almost every cell, every organ, and every level of human functioning. The most profound early effect is on the central nervous system, where it acts as a sedative, producing relaxation and sense of well-being. It impairs the intellect, physical abilities and metabolism. When alcohol is taken regularly, in large amounts over many years, permanent physical damage will occur. This damage is often aggravated by the lack of vitamins because most alcoholics have poor eating habits.
Alcohol can also damage the liver, brain and other parts of the nervous system.
In the final stages of alcoholism, parts of the brain are permanently damaged and confusion, disorientation and DT's result. The potential dangers of alcohol abuse are so great that many scientists believe that, if the drug had been discovered today, it would probably not be approved by the Health Authorities. Any chemical that alters mood, feelings, co-ordination, perception, or behaviour, alters the cells in the brain and disrupts their normal chemical behaviour. When alcohol enters the blood stream it travels to the brain. Alcohol can affect millions of nerve cells and change communication patterns throughout the brain.