Alcohol-Related Anaemia and Disruptions in Blood Clotting

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Article written by Paul Spanjar
Article reviewed by Steve Spiegel

From liver damage to cognitive impairments, chronic alcohol abuse can wreak havoc on multiple organ systems. We often see complaints of liver disease and brain fog, but there are other less-known effects of alcohol abuse on our bodies. Two lesser-known consequences of alcohol abuse are alcohol-related anaemia and disruptions in blood clotting. These conditions can have severe implications for our health and wellbeing. There is also enough research to warn us about the deadly complications alcohol abuse has on the blood.

What Is Blood Clotting?

Blood clotting, or coagulation, is a necessary homeostasis function that prevents excessive bleeding when a blood vessel is injured. Platelets (a type of blood cell) and proteins in your plasma (the liquid part of the blood) work together to stop the bleeding by forming a clot over the injury. Blood clots are gel-like clumps of blood that can be beneficial when they form in response to an injury or a cut, plugging the injured blood vessel and stopping bleeding. Clotting factors in your blood are customarily turned off so you do not form abnormal blood clots.

When an injury occurs, platelets release molecules into the blood that help turn on clotting factors. The clotting factors follow a step-by-step process to bind the injury and facilitate healing. One important clotting factor is fibrin. It forms a mesh-like structure to hold the blood clot together. We need blood clotting to keep us safe and protect our internal systems. Without clotting mechanisms, we would bleed out at any minor injury. That is why the effect of alcohol on blood health should be studied. One of the main vitamins assisting this process is Vitamin K and people with a Vitamin K deficiency might notice slower or more difficult clotting after injury. It is also very dangerous for women who might experience problematic menstruation because of inconsistent blood coagulation.

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Alcohol Abuse and Its Effects on Blood Health

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), alcohol is a risk factor for many diseases and conditions, including anaemia. Anaemia is when the blood has fewer red blood cells (RBCs) or haemoglobin. Several specific nutrients needed for blood production and clotting become deficient due to alcohol abuse. Ultimately, this leads to anaemia. Some include:

  1. Vitamin B-12: Vitamin B-12 is essential for producing red blood cells and properly functioning the nervous system. Alcohol abuse can interfere with the absorption of vitamin B-12. This deficiency may lead to pernicious anaemia.
  2. Folate: Folate, also known as vitamin B-9, is crucial in DNA synthesis and red blood cell production. Alcohol consumption can impair folate absorption. Folate deficiency can result in megaloblastic anaemia, where red blood cells are larger than normal.
  3. Iron: Iron is a vital component of haemoglobin. Alcohol abuse can cause gastrointestinal bleeding and inflammation, leading to iron loss and anaemia. Additionally, alcohol can interfere with iron absorption and metabolism, further exacerbating the deficiency.

Anaemia can cause symptoms such as:

  • Fatigue
  • Weakness
  • Shortness of breath
  • Increased susceptibility to infections

Disruptions in blood clotting are another potential consequence of excessive alcohol consumption. Alcohol abuse can lead to clotting problems through various mechanisms, including:

  • Liver damage
  • Vitamin K deficiency
  • Impaired fibrinolysis
  • Altered platelet function.

For instance, chronic liver disease from prolonged alcohol consumption impairs the liver’s ability to produce essential clotting factors. Also, alcohol interferes with vitamin K absorption, fibrinolysis and platelet function, increasing the risk of bleeding and clot formation. As addressing alcohol abuse is crucial for maintaining proper blood clotting and overall health, our assessments team is experienced in helping you define the effects your drinking has had on your system. Contact The Providence Project today for a whole-body assessment for alcohol addiction.

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The Providence Projects’ Residential Alcohol Rehab Offer

The Providence Project’s residential alcohol treatment programme provides a structured and supportive environment to monitor and assist with alcohol-related disruptions in your system. Our goal is to ensure that you receive the best possible care. If a loved one is experiencing alcohol-related anaemia or disruptions in blood clotting, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Contact The Providence Projects today to learn more about our services and help them start their journey towards recovery right now. We offer immediate admissions to our rehabilitation centre in Bournemouth.

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Paul Spanjar

Paul is passionate about high-quality addiction treatment and truly believes that, with the right treatment, anyone can recover.

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