Hematological ill effects are long and variable. Folic acid deficiency, however, is the most common manifestation of alcoholic abuse resulting in Macrocytic Anaemia. Zeine syndrome is a triad of haemolytic anaemia, jaundice and hyperlipidaemia that follows alcoholic binges. Thrombocytopenia and other platelet abnormalities are not rare in alcoholics. The commonly used metronidazole Fagyl interacts badly with alcohol.
Recurrent infection is very common among chronic alcoholics.
The resistance to disease and the immunological defense system are compromised by alcohol intake. Chest infections are notorious in alcoholics. Pneumonia, lung abscess, emphysema and pulmonary tuberculosis are all common in alcoholics. During acute alcoholic intoxication, the drunk person usually vomits, the cough reflexes which are protective are paralysed. The vomitus thus easily pass to the lung causing pneumonia or lung abscess.