Pancreatitis is extremely painful and can be fatal. In men, it impairs the production of sperm and testosterone, and can lead to infertility and impotence. In women, decreased estrogen metabolism in the liver increases the amount of estrogen circulating in the body, which can contribute to menstral irregularities and infertility. Prolonged alcohol abuse can cause anemias and abnormal blood clotting, which results in excessive bleeding and easy bruising. It also impairs the function of white blood cells, increasing susceptibility to infection.
Alcohol dependence can cause osteoporosis and arthritis, and deform the joints.
It can atrophy muscles and cause acute muscle pain and weakness.