Scientists are divided about the relationship between diverticulitis and alcohol. Today, we answer all your questions, including, “Can alcohol cause diverticulitis?”
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
You fidget on the paper-covered table, swinging your legs, waiting for the doctor to arrive. The nurse asks a lot of questions about your symptoms — nausea, fatigue, and lingering abdominal pain.
“How long has this been going on?”
You’re not quite sure.
“How many alcoholic drinks do you consume each week?”
You’re not sure about that, either.
Part of you thinks this appointment may be overkill, but then again, those late-night Google searches turned up some scary diagnoses — gastritis, appendicitis, and diverticulitis. The paper crinkles as you pull out your phone to look up that last one. What is diverticulitis, and could it be linked to your alcohol use?
First, we’ll need to familiarize ourselves with the differences between diverticulosis, diverticulitis, and diverticular disease. Stick with us — we promise it’ll make sense.
“Diverticula” is the scientific name for abnormal, marble-sized sacs that can form in the wall of the large intestine. Any medical problem involving these structures is classified as a diverticular disease.
There are two major forms of diverticular disease: diverticulosis and diverticulitis. The words look similar, but if you take a look at those suffixes, the differences are easy to spot:
Let’s explore the disease of and inflammation of diverticula. Hint: one is a prerequisite for the other.
Diverticulosis is a disease or condition of the diverticula. It’s the catch-all term for the formation of those tiny pockets in our intestinal wall. They’re created when our bowel muscles weaken and the inner layers push outwards.
Most of us won’t realize we have diverticulosis; it tends to be symptomless. In fact, we may only get a diagnosis after those pouches get inflamed. That’s what diverticulitis is.
After intestinal antechambers have formed, they may tear, wear away, or begin to bleed. Diverticulitis is the medical term for the inflammation, perforation, or infection of those pockets. It’s a relatively rare condition that impacts just 4% of people with diverticula. Symptoms generally include persistent abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
So, to recap: diverticulosis is the development of intestinal pockets. Diverticulitis is the inflammation or infection of those pockets. In this article, we’re talking about diverticulitis and alcohol.
But let’s face it — no matter where we go, there will be alcohol. According to the World Gastroenterology Organisation, 75% of diverticular disease cases are simple. The other 25% come with complications like abscesses, bowel obstruction, peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal lining), sepsis, and the formation of fistulas. The symptoms of diverticulitis vary from person to person, and they depend on the severity of our condition.
The hallmark of diverticulitis is severe, persistent abdominal pain, especially on the lower left side. However, some people may experience more discomfort on the right side, which is why diverticulitis and appendicitis are often confused.
There are other symptoms, however, that can help differentiate the two:
Many people refer to diverticulitis as a “flare-up,” since it occurs when those little pockets are inflamed. Pain, cramping, and changes to bowel movements can be signs of diverticular distress. Those previously diagnosed with diverticulosis should contact their treatment provider if these symptoms develop.
Because diverticulitis is correlated with age, it’s much more common in older people. When younger folks develop this condition, it’s usually due to factors like obesity and high-risk activities. Smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and a high-fat, low-fiber diet can increase the risk of diverticulosis and, subsequently, diverticulitis.
Some researchers have begun to speculate about alcohol’s involvement in diverticular disease. Can alcohol cause diverticulitis?
Few substances impact our esophagus, stomach, and intestines as strongly as alcohol. Diverticulitis and other GI conditions don’t just develop overnight; it may take years for us to begin experiencing symptoms. That’s because of the insidious ways booze affects our digestive system:
There’s more to gut health than diverticulitis and alcohol. In time, drinking can impact our overall gastrointestinal well-being. Many GI disorders are connected to heavy alcohol use:
Alcohol is related to myriad gastrointestinal disorders, but is it a major player in the irritation of diverticula? Scientific opinion is mixed.
One study from The Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology determined that alcohol consumption is a risk factor for diverticulosis (which, in turn, can lead to diverticulitis). Researchers found that the more a person drank, the more likely they were to develop the condition.
Another group of researchers published similar results in the journal Medicine (Baltimore). They analyzed a database of almost 260,000 people and found that those who consumed alcohol were more vulnerable to diverticular disease. This large-scale study illustrates a clear correlation between alcohol use and conditions related to diverticular disease.
However, some studies have identified an opposite trend. A good example is a meta-analysis published in The Hawaii Journal of Medicine and Public Health, which found no significant relationship between alcohol and diverticulitis or diverticulosis.
While researchers are still gathering information about whether alcohol causes diverticulitis, we’ve confirmed that drinking is not good for our digestive system.
So, if we have diverticulitis, can we still drink?
It’s probably not the best idea.
First, drinking weakens our immune system, which is a no-go when we’re fighting off any kind of diverticular infection. Alcohol also interacts with the antibiotic medications used to treat this condition, reducing their efficacy and increasing the likelihood of adverse reactions. Finally, severe cases of diverticulitis may result in fistulas, bowel obstructions, and other complications, and drinking might increase these health risks.
There’s no “best type” of alcoholic beverage to drink during a bout of diverticulitis. There is a worst one, though — liquor, or any libation with a high alcohol concentration. Check the alcohol by volume (ABV) before cheers-ing and consider booze-free alternatives.
If we’re in the middle of a diverticulitis flare-up, it’s best to avoid alcohol altogether. Once we’ve recovered, we should talk to our doctor, who might give us the okay to begin reincorporating alcohol. They may also recommend that we continue to abstain, or only drink one or two beverages on special occasions. It is important to follow our physician’s advice to protect our health and safety after a diverticulitis diagnosis.
If you’re experiencing a diverticulitis flare-up, follow your doctor’s orders, not listicles on the Internet! In addition to your doctor’s orders, however, some lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms and prevent future flare-ups:
1. Forge a new relationship with fiber. Low dietary fiber is behind many cases of diverticular disease. Eating more roughage — a.k.a., vegetables you have to chew thoroughly — can do great things for your GI tract. High-fiber foods are more than just beans and broccoli. To keep diverticulitis at bay, try incorporating more bananas, berries, avocados, brussels sprouts, and whole grains into your meals. If you’re experiencing a flare-up, your doctor may recommend a low-fiber diet instead. This is why it’s important to speak to your doctor before making any major nutritional changes.
2. Move more. Exercise promotes regular bowel movements, improves digestion, and reduces stress, which can worsen the symptoms of diverticulitis. Once your flare-up has passed, ask your provider about low-impact physical activities to boost your health.
3. Take a fiber supplement. A variety of fiber sources can help regulate your bowel movements. For some of us, these supplements work wonders. Talk to a doctor before starting any dietary supplement, even Metamucil or Benefiber. If you do add fiber supplements to your regimen, do so gradually to avoid bloating and gas.
4. Drink a lot of water. Hydration is especially important if we struggle with constipation or diarrhea. Drinking enough water keeps waste moving smoothly through our GI tract. Try to hit the recommended daily intake of 13 cups of water per day for men and nine for women.
5. Avoid NSAIDs. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Advil and Aleve can irritate our GI tracts, especially our intestines. Cutting down on these over-the-counter pain remedies may be a good idea for those concerned about diverticulitis.
6. Try meatless Mondays. Researchers have found that diverticular disease is much less common in vegetarians. If you’re not down for a meat-free diet, try cutting it out once or twice a week.
7. Avoid alcohol. Drinking can increase our risk of diverticulitis flare-ups and the formation of new diverticula. Cut back on drinking or leave it behind for good! If you need help cutting back on your alcohol use, Reframe can help.
8. Seek medical attention. If you suspect diverticulitis, make an appointment with your doctor or go to the emergency room. Your physician may recommend surgery, prescribe antibiotics, or put you on a clear liquid diet (that doesn’t include alcohol).
Whenever you experience persistent abdominal pain, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention. Don’t wait for the discomfort to pass — you never know what’s to blame. An experienced healthcare provider can rule out life-threatening conditions like appendicitis, which would require emergency surgery.
Pain isn’t the only sign that something is wrong. If you’ve already been diagnosed with diverticulitis or diverticulosis, consider calling the doctor when you experience the following:
Back to that crinkly-papered exam table — if your doctor comes into the room and diagnoses you with diverticulitis, we hope this article will give you some actionable ideas about how to move forward. If they ask you to cut back on your drinking, Reframe can help you address your alcohol intake.
Reframe is a proven habit-change app that draws from leading behavioral research, a network of medical and lifestyle professionals, and neuroscientific best practices. With partners at Emory, Harvard, and other major institutions, we’ll show you how to live a fulfilling life with less (or no!) booze.
We made Reframe to help people like you discover the very best versions of themselves. To try the app free for 7 days, visit the App Store or Google Play. We can’t wait to see you thrive.
You fidget on the paper-covered table, swinging your legs, waiting for the doctor to arrive. The nurse asks a lot of questions about your symptoms — nausea, fatigue, and lingering abdominal pain.
“How long has this been going on?”
You’re not quite sure.
“How many alcoholic drinks do you consume each week?”
You’re not sure about that, either.
Part of you thinks this appointment may be overkill, but then again, those late-night Google searches turned up some scary diagnoses — gastritis, appendicitis, and diverticulitis. The paper crinkles as you pull out your phone to look up that last one. What is diverticulitis, and could it be linked to your alcohol use?
First, we’ll need to familiarize ourselves with the differences between diverticulosis, diverticulitis, and diverticular disease. Stick with us — we promise it’ll make sense.
“Diverticula” is the scientific name for abnormal, marble-sized sacs that can form in the wall of the large intestine. Any medical problem involving these structures is classified as a diverticular disease.
There are two major forms of diverticular disease: diverticulosis and diverticulitis. The words look similar, but if you take a look at those suffixes, the differences are easy to spot:
Let’s explore the disease of and inflammation of diverticula. Hint: one is a prerequisite for the other.
Diverticulosis is a disease or condition of the diverticula. It’s the catch-all term for the formation of those tiny pockets in our intestinal wall. They’re created when our bowel muscles weaken and the inner layers push outwards.
Most of us won’t realize we have diverticulosis; it tends to be symptomless. In fact, we may only get a diagnosis after those pouches get inflamed. That’s what diverticulitis is.
After intestinal antechambers have formed, they may tear, wear away, or begin to bleed. Diverticulitis is the medical term for the inflammation, perforation, or infection of those pockets. It’s a relatively rare condition that impacts just 4% of people with diverticula. Symptoms generally include persistent abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
So, to recap: diverticulosis is the development of intestinal pockets. Diverticulitis is the inflammation or infection of those pockets. In this article, we’re talking about diverticulitis and alcohol.
But let’s face it — no matter where we go, there will be alcohol. According to the World Gastroenterology Organisation, 75% of diverticular disease cases are simple. The other 25% come with complications like abscesses, bowel obstruction, peritonitis (inflammation of the abdominal lining), sepsis, and the formation of fistulas. The symptoms of diverticulitis vary from person to person, and they depend on the severity of our condition.
The hallmark of diverticulitis is severe, persistent abdominal pain, especially on the lower left side. However, some people may experience more discomfort on the right side, which is why diverticulitis and appendicitis are often confused.
There are other symptoms, however, that can help differentiate the two:
Many people refer to diverticulitis as a “flare-up,” since it occurs when those little pockets are inflamed. Pain, cramping, and changes to bowel movements can be signs of diverticular distress. Those previously diagnosed with diverticulosis should contact their treatment provider if these symptoms develop.
Because diverticulitis is correlated with age, it’s much more common in older people. When younger folks develop this condition, it’s usually due to factors like obesity and high-risk activities. Smoking, a sedentary lifestyle, and a high-fat, low-fiber diet can increase the risk of diverticulosis and, subsequently, diverticulitis.
Some researchers have begun to speculate about alcohol’s involvement in diverticular disease. Can alcohol cause diverticulitis?
Few substances impact our esophagus, stomach, and intestines as strongly as alcohol. Diverticulitis and other GI conditions don’t just develop overnight; it may take years for us to begin experiencing symptoms. That’s because of the insidious ways booze affects our digestive system:
There’s more to gut health than diverticulitis and alcohol. In time, drinking can impact our overall gastrointestinal well-being. Many GI disorders are connected to heavy alcohol use:
Alcohol is related to myriad gastrointestinal disorders, but is it a major player in the irritation of diverticula? Scientific opinion is mixed.
One study from The Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology determined that alcohol consumption is a risk factor for diverticulosis (which, in turn, can lead to diverticulitis). Researchers found that the more a person drank, the more likely they were to develop the condition.
Another group of researchers published similar results in the journal Medicine (Baltimore). They analyzed a database of almost 260,000 people and found that those who consumed alcohol were more vulnerable to diverticular disease. This large-scale study illustrates a clear correlation between alcohol use and conditions related to diverticular disease.
However, some studies have identified an opposite trend. A good example is a meta-analysis published in The Hawaii Journal of Medicine and Public Health, which found no significant relationship between alcohol and diverticulitis or diverticulosis.
While researchers are still gathering information about whether alcohol causes diverticulitis, we’ve confirmed that drinking is not good for our digestive system.
So, if we have diverticulitis, can we still drink?
It’s probably not the best idea.
First, drinking weakens our immune system, which is a no-go when we’re fighting off any kind of diverticular infection. Alcohol also interacts with the antibiotic medications used to treat this condition, reducing their efficacy and increasing the likelihood of adverse reactions. Finally, severe cases of diverticulitis may result in fistulas, bowel obstructions, and other complications, and drinking might increase these health risks.
There’s no “best type” of alcoholic beverage to drink during a bout of diverticulitis. There is a worst one, though — liquor, or any libation with a high alcohol concentration. Check the alcohol by volume (ABV) before cheers-ing and consider booze-free alternatives.
If we’re in the middle of a diverticulitis flare-up, it’s best to avoid alcohol altogether. Once we’ve recovered, we should talk to our doctor, who might give us the okay to begin reincorporating alcohol. They may also recommend that we continue to abstain, or only drink one or two beverages on special occasions. It is important to follow our physician’s advice to protect our health and safety after a diverticulitis diagnosis.
If you’re experiencing a diverticulitis flare-up, follow your doctor’s orders, not listicles on the Internet! In addition to your doctor’s orders, however, some lifestyle changes can help alleviate symptoms and prevent future flare-ups:
1. Forge a new relationship with fiber. Low dietary fiber is behind many cases of diverticular disease. Eating more roughage — a.k.a., vegetables you have to chew thoroughly — can do great things for your GI tract. High-fiber foods are more than just beans and broccoli. To keep diverticulitis at bay, try incorporating more bananas, berries, avocados, brussels sprouts, and whole grains into your meals. If you’re experiencing a flare-up, your doctor may recommend a low-fiber diet instead. This is why it’s important to speak to your doctor before making any major nutritional changes.
2. Move more. Exercise promotes regular bowel movements, improves digestion, and reduces stress, which can worsen the symptoms of diverticulitis. Once your flare-up has passed, ask your provider about low-impact physical activities to boost your health.
3. Take a fiber supplement. A variety of fiber sources can help regulate your bowel movements. For some of us, these supplements work wonders. Talk to a doctor before starting any dietary supplement, even Metamucil or Benefiber. If you do add fiber supplements to your regimen, do so gradually to avoid bloating and gas.
4. Drink a lot of water. Hydration is especially important if we struggle with constipation or diarrhea. Drinking enough water keeps waste moving smoothly through our GI tract. Try to hit the recommended daily intake of 13 cups of water per day for men and nine for women.
5. Avoid NSAIDs. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like Advil and Aleve can irritate our GI tracts, especially our intestines. Cutting down on these over-the-counter pain remedies may be a good idea for those concerned about diverticulitis.
6. Try meatless Mondays. Researchers have found that diverticular disease is much less common in vegetarians. If you’re not down for a meat-free diet, try cutting it out once or twice a week.
7. Avoid alcohol. Drinking can increase our risk of diverticulitis flare-ups and the formation of new diverticula. Cut back on drinking or leave it behind for good! If you need help cutting back on your alcohol use, Reframe can help.
8. Seek medical attention. If you suspect diverticulitis, make an appointment with your doctor or go to the emergency room. Your physician may recommend surgery, prescribe antibiotics, or put you on a clear liquid diet (that doesn’t include alcohol).
Whenever you experience persistent abdominal pain, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention. Don’t wait for the discomfort to pass — you never know what’s to blame. An experienced healthcare provider can rule out life-threatening conditions like appendicitis, which would require emergency surgery.
Pain isn’t the only sign that something is wrong. If you’ve already been diagnosed with diverticulitis or diverticulosis, consider calling the doctor when you experience the following:
Back to that crinkly-papered exam table — if your doctor comes into the room and diagnoses you with diverticulitis, we hope this article will give you some actionable ideas about how to move forward. If they ask you to cut back on your drinking, Reframe can help you address your alcohol intake.
Reframe is a proven habit-change app that draws from leading behavioral research, a network of medical and lifestyle professionals, and neuroscientific best practices. With partners at Emory, Harvard, and other major institutions, we’ll show you how to live a fulfilling life with less (or no!) booze.
We made Reframe to help people like you discover the very best versions of themselves. To try the app free for 7 days, visit the App Store or Google Play. We can’t wait to see you thrive.
Guidance on drinking alcohol during chemotherapy varies depending on the source. Check out our latest blog for more clarity on the effects of drinking while on chemo.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Chemotherapy is a challenging experience — it’s physically taxing, mentally draining, and the side effects seem to seep into just about every area of life. From physical changes to mood changes and strains on work and family life, it’s not controversial to say: chemotherapy (and cancer in general) sucks.
It’s plausible, then, that we might reach for a few drinks to relax when the stress of chemo has us feeling down. Unfortunately, that’s likely going to do more harm than good. Besides the fact that alcohol fuels depression and anxiety, cancer and excessive drinking have a somewhat reciprocal relationship. Over the years, more research has been done to show a more definitive link between alcohol as a cause of cancer. That being said, surveys also show that excessive drinking is common for cancer patients, even during chemotherapy.
Information online about the safety of drinking alcohol while on chemotherapy is a bit unclear, making it difficult to make our own informed decisions. That’s where we come in. This article will unpack the science behind the effects of alcohol on chemotherapy and come up with a clear answer. Let’s dive in!
Research has extensively linked alcohol to cancer. Recent changes to the American Cancer Society guidelines recommend avoiding alcohol in order to reduce the risk of developing cancer. While many factors are theorized to cause cancer, drinking alcohol directly leads to an increased risk of developing all different types of cancer.
What types of cancer, exactly? Well … all of them. To learn about specific threats, check out our blogs about alcohol-related risks of developing cancer in the throat, colon, liver, breast, and more.
Alcohol’s cancer threat stems from the metabolism of ethanol, the main component of alcohol. Ethanol is broken down by our liver into a toxic compound called acetaldehyde (ACH). ACH is classified as a carcinogen, or a substance that can cause cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies carcinogens into four different categories based on the strength of evidence for their cancer-causing properties: known carcinogens, probable carcinogens, possible carcinogens, and non-classifiable. ACH is a known carcinogen — confirming alcohol’s role in the risk of developing cancer.
Alcohol also disrupts the hormones that promote cell division and growth, depletes essential vitamins and nutrients, and damages the immune system’s innate cancer-fighting power. Drinking during chemo is incredibly common, either in spite of this information or because we aren’t aware of it. To understand the negative effects of drinking while on chemotherapy, let’s first take a look at what chemo is.
Although often described under the umbrella term “chemotherapy” (or “chemo,” for short), this treatment frequently consists of a range of different drugs that attack our cells in different cycles to prevent cancer cells from reproducing. Chemotherapy drugs are cytotoxic, meaning they’re toxic to cells. They are also systemic, which means that they affect all the cells in the body — including healthy ones.
The same property that makes chemo effective at destroying cancer cells makes it dangerous to our healthy cells. This explains why chemo famously causes a reduction in our immune system function, making those of us undergoing chemo treatment immunocompromised. It also comes with a long list of uncomfortable side effects:
Through the long list of potential side effects, we can see the extensive impact that chemo has on our body. Treatment typically lasts anywhere from six months to a year, but sometimes runs longer. Because cancer can be pesky to treat, chemo is often used in conjunction with other approaches and supporting therapies that help to attack cancer from multiple angles and alleviate chemo side effects.
We know that chemotherapy and alcohol both have significant impacts on our body. Let’s see what experts suggest regarding drinking during chemo.
Every chemotherapy regimen is different, using a different combination of drugs delivered on a strict schedule. Following the schedule of chemo cycles is crucial, as the effectiveness of the treatment depends on having sufficient levels of chemo in our body to fight cancer cells. If there are known interactions between alcohol and our chemo medication, treatment cycles may need to be pushed back.
Research shows that missing doses of chemo is associated with increased mortality — which drinking can certainly play a role in. Even though not all chemo or supporting medications have direct interactions with alcohol, drinking can still open the door to many complications (which we’ll get into).
Since alcohol is so heavily tied to the risk of developing cancer, drinking during and after chemo can also increase the risk of recurrence. Chemo causes extreme strain on our body as evidenced by its sometimes debilitating side effects. Drinking alcohol on top of that adds additional strain, pushing our body even harder and adding to our discomfort.
Cancer treatment requires an exhaustive approach that combines different methods and treatments. Alcohol can disrupt chemo in many different ways.
Chemo consists of a combination of different drugs to provide the best chance to eliminate cancer, and alcohol has many known interactions with common drugs used during chemo treatment. It also interacts with other medications used to support cancer treatment including pain relievers, anti-nausea medication, and anti-anxiety drugs.
Let’s take a look at how alcohol interacts with some of the most common chemo drugs:
It’s best to consult with our oncology treatment team regarding specific interactions within our personalized medication regimen. Alcohol may not have direct interactions with all chemo treatment medications, but it can still cause negative effects. Medication and alcohol are metabolized in our liver — putting it into overdrive. This can lead to severe side effects and reduce the effectiveness of the chemo drugs.
Much like the link between alcohol and chemotherapy, drinking also causes harmful impacts on non-chemo cancer treatments. The following therapies are impacted by the negative effects of alcohol:
We can see that interactions between cancer treatments, chemotherapy, and alcohol can cause negative symptoms. As it turns out, the timing of our drinking has a lot to do with how alcohol affects our treatment.
Chemo is primarily administered in medical settings such as a doctor’s office or outpatient clinic. It’s usually given intravenously, but it can also be in the form of an injection or pill. While drinking is not recommended for cancer patients at any stage (even those in remission), let’s dive deeper into the guidelines for drinking immediately after receiving chemo and after all cycles of treatment are completed.
If there are no direct interactions between alcohol and our panel of chemo drugs, drinking immediately after a treatment session may not pose immediate risks or symptoms. However, it’s still not recommended as drinking can further aggravate the side effects of chemo.
Chemo drugs typically stay in our system for 3-7 days, depending on the drug. If we choose to drink, it’s best to wait until the chemo medication exits our system to minimize any adverse effects. Treatment schedules also vary between patients, so it’s important to keep in mind when our next round will be.
Fitting in a drink while on chemo is a balancing act that only adds to the burden of treatment. If you do decide to drink during your treatment plan, be sure to communicate clearly with the treatment team so they can account for all elements.
After all cycles of chemo are completed, drinking is still not recommended. Chemo may help some types of cancer, but, for more advanced cancers, it may only stop the cancer from spreading. This means that the cancer will require ongoing maintenance and therapy to delay progression.
For patients who are cancer-free after chemo is completed, drinking is still not a good idea. Although the correlation between drinking and increased risk of cancer recurrence is still being studied, alcohol is clearly correlated with an increased risk of cancer.
If we do choose to drink, it’s best to wait until chemo symptoms subside, and thereafter follow recommended guidelines for drinking in moderation. Choosing to drink during and after chemo opens up “Pandora’s box,” leading to a host of potential complications and consequences.
Cancer and chemo are extremely taxing on our body. Cancer cells attack from inside, and chemo can destroy healthy cells that decrease our immune defenses. During this vulnerable state, even having one standard drink is not recommended.
If our chemo medication and supporting treatments have direct interactions with alcohol, any amount will cause negative harm to the way the drug works in our system. If our chemo medication doesn’t have direct interactions, we may not see or feel immediate symptoms, but alcohol still stresses out our body when it’s fighting to heal. As such, it’s generally best to avoid alcohol entirely while on chemo.
Drinking during chemo can lead to direct and indirect effects on our health and our fight against cancer. It can make cancer treatment more demanding on our body given these consequences:
Drinking isn’t recommended in any amounts while on chemo, but hiding our drinking can cause even greater harm. Our treatment team will be better equipped to support us if we communicate honestly about our drinking habits. We can also make more intentional choices to help diminish the chances complicating our treatment.
Chemo can be an arduous journey that deserves celebration once completed. We can celebrate the end of chemo and a future of good health by implementing these intentional drinking habits:
While guidelines for the safety of drinking during chemo aren’t cut and dry, medical professionals are unlikely to recommend drinking during cancer treatment. Whether or not drinking increases the chance of cancer recurrence is still inconclusive. However, alcohol has a direct correlation with an increased risk of developing cancer.
Not all chemo medications have interactions with alcohol at face value, but many do, and alcohol can interfere with treatment success in the long run. Cancer treatment can be a long and arduous road — alcohol only makes it more difficult. Quitting or cutting back on alcohol helps keep chemo on track!
Chemotherapy is a challenging experience — it’s physically taxing, mentally draining, and the side effects seem to seep into just about every area of life. From physical changes to mood changes and strains on work and family life, it’s not controversial to say: chemotherapy (and cancer in general) sucks.
It’s plausible, then, that we might reach for a few drinks to relax when the stress of chemo has us feeling down. Unfortunately, that’s likely going to do more harm than good. Besides the fact that alcohol fuels depression and anxiety, cancer and excessive drinking have a somewhat reciprocal relationship. Over the years, more research has been done to show a more definitive link between alcohol as a cause of cancer. That being said, surveys also show that excessive drinking is common for cancer patients, even during chemotherapy.
Information online about the safety of drinking alcohol while on chemotherapy is a bit unclear, making it difficult to make our own informed decisions. That’s where we come in. This article will unpack the science behind the effects of alcohol on chemotherapy and come up with a clear answer. Let’s dive in!
Research has extensively linked alcohol to cancer. Recent changes to the American Cancer Society guidelines recommend avoiding alcohol in order to reduce the risk of developing cancer. While many factors are theorized to cause cancer, drinking alcohol directly leads to an increased risk of developing all different types of cancer.
What types of cancer, exactly? Well … all of them. To learn about specific threats, check out our blogs about alcohol-related risks of developing cancer in the throat, colon, liver, breast, and more.
Alcohol’s cancer threat stems from the metabolism of ethanol, the main component of alcohol. Ethanol is broken down by our liver into a toxic compound called acetaldehyde (ACH). ACH is classified as a carcinogen, or a substance that can cause cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies carcinogens into four different categories based on the strength of evidence for their cancer-causing properties: known carcinogens, probable carcinogens, possible carcinogens, and non-classifiable. ACH is a known carcinogen — confirming alcohol’s role in the risk of developing cancer.
Alcohol also disrupts the hormones that promote cell division and growth, depletes essential vitamins and nutrients, and damages the immune system’s innate cancer-fighting power. Drinking during chemo is incredibly common, either in spite of this information or because we aren’t aware of it. To understand the negative effects of drinking while on chemotherapy, let’s first take a look at what chemo is.
Although often described under the umbrella term “chemotherapy” (or “chemo,” for short), this treatment frequently consists of a range of different drugs that attack our cells in different cycles to prevent cancer cells from reproducing. Chemotherapy drugs are cytotoxic, meaning they’re toxic to cells. They are also systemic, which means that they affect all the cells in the body — including healthy ones.
The same property that makes chemo effective at destroying cancer cells makes it dangerous to our healthy cells. This explains why chemo famously causes a reduction in our immune system function, making those of us undergoing chemo treatment immunocompromised. It also comes with a long list of uncomfortable side effects:
Through the long list of potential side effects, we can see the extensive impact that chemo has on our body. Treatment typically lasts anywhere from six months to a year, but sometimes runs longer. Because cancer can be pesky to treat, chemo is often used in conjunction with other approaches and supporting therapies that help to attack cancer from multiple angles and alleviate chemo side effects.
We know that chemotherapy and alcohol both have significant impacts on our body. Let’s see what experts suggest regarding drinking during chemo.
Every chemotherapy regimen is different, using a different combination of drugs delivered on a strict schedule. Following the schedule of chemo cycles is crucial, as the effectiveness of the treatment depends on having sufficient levels of chemo in our body to fight cancer cells. If there are known interactions between alcohol and our chemo medication, treatment cycles may need to be pushed back.
Research shows that missing doses of chemo is associated with increased mortality — which drinking can certainly play a role in. Even though not all chemo or supporting medications have direct interactions with alcohol, drinking can still open the door to many complications (which we’ll get into).
Since alcohol is so heavily tied to the risk of developing cancer, drinking during and after chemo can also increase the risk of recurrence. Chemo causes extreme strain on our body as evidenced by its sometimes debilitating side effects. Drinking alcohol on top of that adds additional strain, pushing our body even harder and adding to our discomfort.
Cancer treatment requires an exhaustive approach that combines different methods and treatments. Alcohol can disrupt chemo in many different ways.
Chemo consists of a combination of different drugs to provide the best chance to eliminate cancer, and alcohol has many known interactions with common drugs used during chemo treatment. It also interacts with other medications used to support cancer treatment including pain relievers, anti-nausea medication, and anti-anxiety drugs.
Let’s take a look at how alcohol interacts with some of the most common chemo drugs:
It’s best to consult with our oncology treatment team regarding specific interactions within our personalized medication regimen. Alcohol may not have direct interactions with all chemo treatment medications, but it can still cause negative effects. Medication and alcohol are metabolized in our liver — putting it into overdrive. This can lead to severe side effects and reduce the effectiveness of the chemo drugs.
Much like the link between alcohol and chemotherapy, drinking also causes harmful impacts on non-chemo cancer treatments. The following therapies are impacted by the negative effects of alcohol:
We can see that interactions between cancer treatments, chemotherapy, and alcohol can cause negative symptoms. As it turns out, the timing of our drinking has a lot to do with how alcohol affects our treatment.
Chemo is primarily administered in medical settings such as a doctor’s office or outpatient clinic. It’s usually given intravenously, but it can also be in the form of an injection or pill. While drinking is not recommended for cancer patients at any stage (even those in remission), let’s dive deeper into the guidelines for drinking immediately after receiving chemo and after all cycles of treatment are completed.
If there are no direct interactions between alcohol and our panel of chemo drugs, drinking immediately after a treatment session may not pose immediate risks or symptoms. However, it’s still not recommended as drinking can further aggravate the side effects of chemo.
Chemo drugs typically stay in our system for 3-7 days, depending on the drug. If we choose to drink, it’s best to wait until the chemo medication exits our system to minimize any adverse effects. Treatment schedules also vary between patients, so it’s important to keep in mind when our next round will be.
Fitting in a drink while on chemo is a balancing act that only adds to the burden of treatment. If you do decide to drink during your treatment plan, be sure to communicate clearly with the treatment team so they can account for all elements.
After all cycles of chemo are completed, drinking is still not recommended. Chemo may help some types of cancer, but, for more advanced cancers, it may only stop the cancer from spreading. This means that the cancer will require ongoing maintenance and therapy to delay progression.
For patients who are cancer-free after chemo is completed, drinking is still not a good idea. Although the correlation between drinking and increased risk of cancer recurrence is still being studied, alcohol is clearly correlated with an increased risk of cancer.
If we do choose to drink, it’s best to wait until chemo symptoms subside, and thereafter follow recommended guidelines for drinking in moderation. Choosing to drink during and after chemo opens up “Pandora’s box,” leading to a host of potential complications and consequences.
Cancer and chemo are extremely taxing on our body. Cancer cells attack from inside, and chemo can destroy healthy cells that decrease our immune defenses. During this vulnerable state, even having one standard drink is not recommended.
If our chemo medication and supporting treatments have direct interactions with alcohol, any amount will cause negative harm to the way the drug works in our system. If our chemo medication doesn’t have direct interactions, we may not see or feel immediate symptoms, but alcohol still stresses out our body when it’s fighting to heal. As such, it’s generally best to avoid alcohol entirely while on chemo.
Drinking during chemo can lead to direct and indirect effects on our health and our fight against cancer. It can make cancer treatment more demanding on our body given these consequences:
Drinking isn’t recommended in any amounts while on chemo, but hiding our drinking can cause even greater harm. Our treatment team will be better equipped to support us if we communicate honestly about our drinking habits. We can also make more intentional choices to help diminish the chances complicating our treatment.
Chemo can be an arduous journey that deserves celebration once completed. We can celebrate the end of chemo and a future of good health by implementing these intentional drinking habits:
While guidelines for the safety of drinking during chemo aren’t cut and dry, medical professionals are unlikely to recommend drinking during cancer treatment. Whether or not drinking increases the chance of cancer recurrence is still inconclusive. However, alcohol has a direct correlation with an increased risk of developing cancer.
Not all chemo medications have interactions with alcohol at face value, but many do, and alcohol can interfere with treatment success in the long run. Cancer treatment can be a long and arduous road — alcohol only makes it more difficult. Quitting or cutting back on alcohol helps keep chemo on track!
Drinking alcohol before a colonoscopy influences the safety and success of the screening. Learn more about the effects of drinking before a colonoscopy in our latest blog.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Colonoscopies are no glamorous procedure. To add to its unpleasantness, the procedure involves a comprehensive preparation regimen that boosts its accuracy. One of the many instructions in the prep booklet for a colonoscopy is to avoid alcohol. While testing our luck is fun and games when buying a lottery ticket, this “no drinking” guideline is one we’ll want to follow.
Understanding the risks of drinking before a colonoscopy will help us follow protocols and have a safe procedure. Let’s take a good look (no pun intended) at if and when it’s okay to drink before a colonoscopy.
A colonoscopy is a screening procedure that is used to check the large intestine for abnormalities like swelling, polyps, irritated tissue, and diseases. To do this, they insert a colonoscope — a flexible tube with a tiny camera on the end — through the rectum to view the inside of our colon and surrounding areas.
Although it’s relatively quick (typically under an hour), a colonoscopy is considered an invasive procedure that requires anesthesia and a lengthy pre-procedure regimen that ensures the physician gets a clear view of our colon. Standard colonoscopy preparation includes limiting certain substances. Let’s take a closer look at what these are.
Preparation for a colonoscopy typically starts three to four days before the scheduled procedure. However, it’s always important to check with our treatment team for specific instructions.
To ensure that the gastroenterologist has an unobstructed view of our colon, we have to flush out our intestine. To do this, we are instructed to avoid certain foods and substances in the days leading up to the procedure:
Avoiding these four things will give us the best chance of a successful procedure. But let’s dive into how alcohol, specifically, could complicate our colonoscopy.
Most clear liquids are permitted up to two to four hours before the procedure. While most alcoholic beverages are clear liquids, they are still not allowed.
Why? There are several reasons. Alcohol dehydrates us, impacts anesthesia (the stuff that keeps us safe and asleep), and thins our blood. All of these can complicate what would normally be a standard procedure.
But what about just one beer? Can one sip of wine hurt?
When it comes to preparing for a colonoscopy (or any procedure for that matter), all alcohol is created equal.
Spirits, indeed, contain higher alcohol by volume, but any amount of alcohol can impact a colonoscopy. Lower-alcohol beverages such as wine or beer may produce less of an impact, but any amount of alcohol can have serious adverse effects.
People get colonoscopies for one reason: to detect abnormalities. If the doctor cannot get a clear picture, the whole procedure is pointless. When we drink before the procedure, we complicate the screening in multiple ways:
Drinking before a colonoscopy opens the door to complications that can be fatal. It is imperative that we tell our medical team if we have had anything to drink in the days leading up to our procedure. We might be hesitant to say anything for fear they will reschedule the procedure, but rescheduling is a small price to pay to avoid complications.
We should clear our calendars of all happy hours, weddings, or other festivities two to three days before a colonoscopy. A liquid diet and bowel emptying preparation typically start two days before colonoscopy procedures are scheduled. While avoiding alcohol for a longer period before a colonoscopy is beneficial, ensuring our last drink is at least 48 hours before is crucial for our safety.
Chronic drinking is also shown to impact anesthesia, regardless of following proper protocols. Be sure to communicate clearly with the operating physician and request individual direction if needed. Colonoscopy prep seems like it involves a lot of “no’s.” Let’s get into some “yes’s” and alternatives to alcohol.
Colonoscopy prep can be unpleasant, but it doesn’t have to be miserable. As long as the beverage is non-alcoholic and meets the clear liquid criteria, we can still enjoy it. There are plenty of alternatives that won’t impact our colonoscopy:
Including variety in our clear liquid diet helps make the days leading up to our procedure less miserable. Water can get a bit old after two days of just that (even if it is the liquid of life). These alternatives can help us avoid alcohol the days before a colonoscopy, but what do we do if we slip up?
If we do accidentally have a drink within 48 hours of our colonoscopy, the first thing to do is note the time of our last drink. We can then inform our treatment team to receive further guidance on how to proceed. If necessary, the colonoscopy can be postponed to a later date.
We’ve warned against drinking before the procedure, but what about after?
Drinking right after a colonoscopy may not pose an immediate risk to our health, but it may lead to adverse symptoms and produce complications during recovery.
It may take hours or days to fully metabolize anesthesia. If we drink while anesthesia is still in our system, our liver may not be able to keep up. This can lead to increased side effects from anesthesia drugs and hangover symptoms from alcohol.
Furthermore, if any abnormalities are discovered and removed during the procedure, we might be prescribed medications. Drinking after the operation can interact with prescribed medications and also impact recovery.
When dealing with invasive procedures, the fewer complications the better. We’ve determined that alcohol is one of these complications that negatively influences the safety and outcome of colonoscopy procedures. To set us up for success, we can make intentional choices during colonoscopy preparation.
Implementing safe practices leading up to any medical procedure helps things go more smoothly. Here are four tips we can keep in our toolbox for colonoscopies and other medical procedures:
A colonoscopy and the prep leading up to it can be a pain in the butt (pun intended), but a successful procedure can help catch issues before they get more serious. The procedure is short but open to a host of complications when pre-procedure guidelines aren’t followed. One of these procedures is avoiding alcohol. We may think that a sip of wine can’t hurt, but any amount of alcohol before a colonoscopy can have detrimental effects on our safety and the conclusiveness of the test. Thankfully, there are plenty of alternatives to alcohol that we can still enjoy during colonoscopy prep. Avoid alcohol and follow protocol!
Colonoscopies are no glamorous procedure. To add to its unpleasantness, the procedure involves a comprehensive preparation regimen that boosts its accuracy. One of the many instructions in the prep booklet for a colonoscopy is to avoid alcohol. While testing our luck is fun and games when buying a lottery ticket, this “no drinking” guideline is one we’ll want to follow.
Understanding the risks of drinking before a colonoscopy will help us follow protocols and have a safe procedure. Let’s take a good look (no pun intended) at if and when it’s okay to drink before a colonoscopy.
A colonoscopy is a screening procedure that is used to check the large intestine for abnormalities like swelling, polyps, irritated tissue, and diseases. To do this, they insert a colonoscope — a flexible tube with a tiny camera on the end — through the rectum to view the inside of our colon and surrounding areas.
Although it’s relatively quick (typically under an hour), a colonoscopy is considered an invasive procedure that requires anesthesia and a lengthy pre-procedure regimen that ensures the physician gets a clear view of our colon. Standard colonoscopy preparation includes limiting certain substances. Let’s take a closer look at what these are.
Preparation for a colonoscopy typically starts three to four days before the scheduled procedure. However, it’s always important to check with our treatment team for specific instructions.
To ensure that the gastroenterologist has an unobstructed view of our colon, we have to flush out our intestine. To do this, we are instructed to avoid certain foods and substances in the days leading up to the procedure:
Avoiding these four things will give us the best chance of a successful procedure. But let’s dive into how alcohol, specifically, could complicate our colonoscopy.
Most clear liquids are permitted up to two to four hours before the procedure. While most alcoholic beverages are clear liquids, they are still not allowed.
Why? There are several reasons. Alcohol dehydrates us, impacts anesthesia (the stuff that keeps us safe and asleep), and thins our blood. All of these can complicate what would normally be a standard procedure.
But what about just one beer? Can one sip of wine hurt?
When it comes to preparing for a colonoscopy (or any procedure for that matter), all alcohol is created equal.
Spirits, indeed, contain higher alcohol by volume, but any amount of alcohol can impact a colonoscopy. Lower-alcohol beverages such as wine or beer may produce less of an impact, but any amount of alcohol can have serious adverse effects.
People get colonoscopies for one reason: to detect abnormalities. If the doctor cannot get a clear picture, the whole procedure is pointless. When we drink before the procedure, we complicate the screening in multiple ways:
Drinking before a colonoscopy opens the door to complications that can be fatal. It is imperative that we tell our medical team if we have had anything to drink in the days leading up to our procedure. We might be hesitant to say anything for fear they will reschedule the procedure, but rescheduling is a small price to pay to avoid complications.
We should clear our calendars of all happy hours, weddings, or other festivities two to three days before a colonoscopy. A liquid diet and bowel emptying preparation typically start two days before colonoscopy procedures are scheduled. While avoiding alcohol for a longer period before a colonoscopy is beneficial, ensuring our last drink is at least 48 hours before is crucial for our safety.
Chronic drinking is also shown to impact anesthesia, regardless of following proper protocols. Be sure to communicate clearly with the operating physician and request individual direction if needed. Colonoscopy prep seems like it involves a lot of “no’s.” Let’s get into some “yes’s” and alternatives to alcohol.
Colonoscopy prep can be unpleasant, but it doesn’t have to be miserable. As long as the beverage is non-alcoholic and meets the clear liquid criteria, we can still enjoy it. There are plenty of alternatives that won’t impact our colonoscopy:
Including variety in our clear liquid diet helps make the days leading up to our procedure less miserable. Water can get a bit old after two days of just that (even if it is the liquid of life). These alternatives can help us avoid alcohol the days before a colonoscopy, but what do we do if we slip up?
If we do accidentally have a drink within 48 hours of our colonoscopy, the first thing to do is note the time of our last drink. We can then inform our treatment team to receive further guidance on how to proceed. If necessary, the colonoscopy can be postponed to a later date.
We’ve warned against drinking before the procedure, but what about after?
Drinking right after a colonoscopy may not pose an immediate risk to our health, but it may lead to adverse symptoms and produce complications during recovery.
It may take hours or days to fully metabolize anesthesia. If we drink while anesthesia is still in our system, our liver may not be able to keep up. This can lead to increased side effects from anesthesia drugs and hangover symptoms from alcohol.
Furthermore, if any abnormalities are discovered and removed during the procedure, we might be prescribed medications. Drinking after the operation can interact with prescribed medications and also impact recovery.
When dealing with invasive procedures, the fewer complications the better. We’ve determined that alcohol is one of these complications that negatively influences the safety and outcome of colonoscopy procedures. To set us up for success, we can make intentional choices during colonoscopy preparation.
Implementing safe practices leading up to any medical procedure helps things go more smoothly. Here are four tips we can keep in our toolbox for colonoscopies and other medical procedures:
A colonoscopy and the prep leading up to it can be a pain in the butt (pun intended), but a successful procedure can help catch issues before they get more serious. The procedure is short but open to a host of complications when pre-procedure guidelines aren’t followed. One of these procedures is avoiding alcohol. We may think that a sip of wine can’t hurt, but any amount of alcohol before a colonoscopy can have detrimental effects on our safety and the conclusiveness of the test. Thankfully, there are plenty of alternatives to alcohol that we can still enjoy during colonoscopy prep. Avoid alcohol and follow protocol!
Can sniffing alcohol relieve nausea? Read our latest blog to find out!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
No one likes the feeling of an upset stomach, and most of us will do just about anything to alleviate the pain and avoid throwing up. If you scan the web, you may find that people swear by sniffing alcohol to alleviate nausea. Is it true? Does it work? This article will walk you through everything you need to know about nausea, alcohol, and whether or not smelling alcohol for nausea works.
Nausea is that queasy or uneasy feeling we get in our stomach. The urge to vomit or an uncomfortable feeling in our throats often accompanies nausea. Vomiting or “throwing up” is when we forcibly empty the contents of our stomach through our mouth. Muscles in our stomach contract to propel the stomach’s contents through our esophagus and out. Nausea and vomiting are not a disease of their own but symptoms of different conditions. There are many reasons people experience nausea:
Vomiting and nausea are typically harmless, but in some cases, they can be a sign of something more serious such as encephalitis, meningitis, some cancers, heart attack, concussion or brain injury, brain tumors, bowel obstruction, or appendicitis. If you think you are experiencing something more serious than general nausea and vomiting, seek medical attention.
Yes! It is not uncommon for us to feel nausea after drinking alcohol. Vomiting is a common result of alcohol consumption. Why? Alcohol irritates the lining of our stomach and slows the rate of digestion, which leads to fat building up in our liver, stomach, and pancreas secretions. The toxins released as we consume alcohol alert the “vomiting center” in our brain — the area postrema. The brain senses these toxins and tries to rid the body of them by signaling us to throw up.
So, if alcohol can cause nausea or make us throw up, how would smelling alcohol help us with it?
To answer that question, we have to understand the different types of alcohol:
When people recommend smelling alcohol to relieve nausea, they are not talking about sniffing an open bottle of vodka; they are talking about isopropyl alcohol (IPA).
But does it work? In some cases, a few big whiffs of rubbing alcohol can help alleviate nausea; however, there is limited scientific evidence to prove it.
One study found that isopropyl alcohol vapor aromatherapy provided faster relief of nausea and reduced the need for anti-nausea medications. Another study saw that inhaled isopropyl alcohol helped patients experiencing nausea in the emergency department.
Although the limited evidence seems promising, there is still no guarantee that sniffing IPA will relieve our nausea. Furthermore, inhaling too much isopropyl alcohol can irritate or paralyze our respiratory system. We need to be careful when trying to use isopropyl alcohol to help with nausea and remember that it might not work for everyone.
Smelling alcohol for nausea may work in some cases, but why? Since there has been limited research on this topic, we don’t know exactly how it can help with nausea. Some believe the strong smell of rubbing alcohol may be a distraction from our nausea. Another theory is that overloading our olfactory system (our sense of smell) overrides our senses and leads our brains to prioritize processing the strong scent over the feeling of nausea.
Much of the evidence that smelling alcohol helps with nausea is found in anecdotal reports of people feeling better. With the limited research conducted, it is hard to conclude the true mechanism, but we know it works for some people.
Smelling alcohol may not work for everyone, but other home remedies might help:
If nausea is persistent and home remedies do not help, seek medical attention. Physicians may suggest anti-nausea medications such as Ondansetron (Zofran), Metoclopramide, Olanzapine, or Promethazine.
Sniffing alcohol might help with nausea, but it’s important to know the difference between isopropyl alcohol and the alcohol we drink (ethanol). We should not consume isopropyl alcohol, and sniffing ethanol won’t do anything. Still, the science behind nausea relief from sniffing IPA is unclear and unproven. Either way, quitting or cutting back on drinking alcohol (ethanol) can help us avoid nausea.
No one likes the feeling of an upset stomach, and most of us will do just about anything to alleviate the pain and avoid throwing up. If you scan the web, you may find that people swear by sniffing alcohol to alleviate nausea. Is it true? Does it work? This article will walk you through everything you need to know about nausea, alcohol, and whether or not smelling alcohol for nausea works.
Nausea is that queasy or uneasy feeling we get in our stomach. The urge to vomit or an uncomfortable feeling in our throats often accompanies nausea. Vomiting or “throwing up” is when we forcibly empty the contents of our stomach through our mouth. Muscles in our stomach contract to propel the stomach’s contents through our esophagus and out. Nausea and vomiting are not a disease of their own but symptoms of different conditions. There are many reasons people experience nausea:
Vomiting and nausea are typically harmless, but in some cases, they can be a sign of something more serious such as encephalitis, meningitis, some cancers, heart attack, concussion or brain injury, brain tumors, bowel obstruction, or appendicitis. If you think you are experiencing something more serious than general nausea and vomiting, seek medical attention.
Yes! It is not uncommon for us to feel nausea after drinking alcohol. Vomiting is a common result of alcohol consumption. Why? Alcohol irritates the lining of our stomach and slows the rate of digestion, which leads to fat building up in our liver, stomach, and pancreas secretions. The toxins released as we consume alcohol alert the “vomiting center” in our brain — the area postrema. The brain senses these toxins and tries to rid the body of them by signaling us to throw up.
So, if alcohol can cause nausea or make us throw up, how would smelling alcohol help us with it?
To answer that question, we have to understand the different types of alcohol:
When people recommend smelling alcohol to relieve nausea, they are not talking about sniffing an open bottle of vodka; they are talking about isopropyl alcohol (IPA).
But does it work? In some cases, a few big whiffs of rubbing alcohol can help alleviate nausea; however, there is limited scientific evidence to prove it.
One study found that isopropyl alcohol vapor aromatherapy provided faster relief of nausea and reduced the need for anti-nausea medications. Another study saw that inhaled isopropyl alcohol helped patients experiencing nausea in the emergency department.
Although the limited evidence seems promising, there is still no guarantee that sniffing IPA will relieve our nausea. Furthermore, inhaling too much isopropyl alcohol can irritate or paralyze our respiratory system. We need to be careful when trying to use isopropyl alcohol to help with nausea and remember that it might not work for everyone.
Smelling alcohol for nausea may work in some cases, but why? Since there has been limited research on this topic, we don’t know exactly how it can help with nausea. Some believe the strong smell of rubbing alcohol may be a distraction from our nausea. Another theory is that overloading our olfactory system (our sense of smell) overrides our senses and leads our brains to prioritize processing the strong scent over the feeling of nausea.
Much of the evidence that smelling alcohol helps with nausea is found in anecdotal reports of people feeling better. With the limited research conducted, it is hard to conclude the true mechanism, but we know it works for some people.
Smelling alcohol may not work for everyone, but other home remedies might help:
If nausea is persistent and home remedies do not help, seek medical attention. Physicians may suggest anti-nausea medications such as Ondansetron (Zofran), Metoclopramide, Olanzapine, or Promethazine.
Sniffing alcohol might help with nausea, but it’s important to know the difference between isopropyl alcohol and the alcohol we drink (ethanol). We should not consume isopropyl alcohol, and sniffing ethanol won’t do anything. Still, the science behind nausea relief from sniffing IPA is unclear and unproven. Either way, quitting or cutting back on drinking alcohol (ethanol) can help us avoid nausea.
Organic cane alcohol can sound like a better choice than conventional grain alcohol. But that’s not the case. Check out our latest blog for more info on the adverse effects of cane alcohol.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Organic, natural, and non-GMO, among many other labels, are supposedly “better” alternatives to a normal generic product. But what about organic cane alcohol? We know that there are harmful effects of drinking alcoholic beverages and may be looking for a better option.
On the surface, cane alcohol can seem like a viable alternative to other alcoholic beverages we may be more familiar with. However, a deeper dive into its adverse effects may suggest otherwise. Let’s further examine what it is and evaluate if it's a healthier option so we can make more well-informed alcohol choices.
Cane alcohol is alcohol that is made from the sugar cane plant. The two main types of cane alcohol are pure cane alcohol and alcohol made from molasses — which we know as rum.
Pure cane alcohol is made from organic sugar cane. The plant is cut and milled with water to produce raw sugar cane juice, which is then heated to remove the impurities. The sugar cane juice is fermented and distilled multiple times to reach a high level of purity, which organic cane alcohol is known for. Rum, on the other hand, is made from fermentation of molasses, a byproduct of the sugar-making process. It falls under the general category of cane alcohol but is distinct from pure cane alcohol.
Pure organic cane alcohol is known for its neutral taste and purity, making it adaptable to many different uses.
Organic cane alcohol is used in a variety of different industries aside from alcoholic beverage companies. Some of its other uses include the following:
Cane alcohol is versatile, not just in its applications within different industries but also in the types of alcoholic beverages it can create.
Pure cane alcohol, which is pure alcohol at 98% alcohol by volume, is used to make distilled alcoholic beverages such as liqueurs, vodkas, and bitters. Legality varies widely by country and region. When purchasing or consuming cane alcohol, it’s important to check regional regulations.
Cane alcoholic drinks are extremely popular in Brazil. Three of the most notable include cachaça, aguardente de cana, and simple alcoholic sugar cane distillate — all made from sugar cane juice. Each varies in ABV and has its own minimum and maximum ABV regulations in Brazil.
While cane alcoholic beverages are popular in Brazil, rum is the most popular cane alcohol approved for consumption in the U.S. According to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), rum may not exceed 95% alcohol by volume but can vary in regulations depending on the area.
So is cane alcohol really so bad, given its popularity and various uses?
Organic sugar cane alcohol in the context of cosmetics preservation and pharmaceuticals can be a great alternative to synthetically produced chemicals. However, in the context of alcoholic beverages, being derived from an organic plant doesn’t negate the toxicity of alcohol.
Just the way a basket of french fries or a carton of apple juice doesn't count as our serving of fruits and vegetables for the day, alcohol made from a plant doesn’t exactly make it a green juice. Organic cane alcohol has the same harmful effects as other alcoholic beverages that are made from other plants. It goes through the same fermentation process that creates alcohol by turning sugar into ethanol. When we consume ethanol, it’s broken down into a toxic compound known as acetaldehyde — the culprit of many of alcohol’s detrimental effects.
A particular study focused on sugar cane spirits found that their consumption produced anxiolytic-like effects in mice, reducing their inhibitions and causing them to behave out of the ordinary, while also causing them liver injury. While the alcohol content in organic cane alcohol can vary depending on the type of alcoholic beverage, it still contains toxic compounds that harm our health.
So, we’ve learned that cane alcohol has the same harmful effects as grain alcohol, but let’s dive into the difference a little more.
Grain and cane alcohol are similar in that they have various uses, and they’re both derived from plants: cane alcohol is from sugar cane and grain alcohol is from other grains such as corn, wheat, or barley. But grain and cane alcohol are distinct due to three main differences:
While sugar cane alcohol has some benefits over grain alcohol, consuming cane alcohol is still associated with many risks.
Sugar cane alcohol is just like any other alcohol in that it is a toxic compound that opens the door to many different complications and consequences. Some of the issues that drinking alcohol leads to include the following:
Due to the way sugar cane alcohol is presented, it also comes with its own risk factors.
Let’s clear up some of the confusion surrounding organic cane alcohol so we can make well-informed decisions about drinking.
Cane alcohol, specifically organic cane alcohol, is associated with many common misconceptions, such as:
After we understand exactly what cane alcohol is we are able to consume more mindfully and safely.
As we’ve learned, consuming cane alcohol comes with many risks. If we choose to drink cane alcohol, we can limit its negative consequences through mindful drinking practices:
Mindfully approaching cane alcohol and alcohol in general can help minimize its adverse effects. However, at the end of the day, alcohol is still alcohol, no matter if it’s organic or derived from a sugar cane plant.
We may have all been duped at some point in our lives by product labeling. Free-range, all-natural, and organic may not always be what we think. Debunking common myths about organic cane alcohol helps us see it for what it is. Pure cane alcohol is a useful, eco-friendly substance when used in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries. However, as an alcoholic beverage, organic cane alcohol has the same toxic effects as grain alcohol, which we may be more familiar with. The lack of clarity and regulations surrounding cane alcohol makes it even more dangerous than other alcoholic beverages. Gain a better relationship with alcohol by cutting back, whether it be from grain or cane!
Organic, natural, and non-GMO, among many other labels, are supposedly “better” alternatives to a normal generic product. But what about organic cane alcohol? We know that there are harmful effects of drinking alcoholic beverages and may be looking for a better option.
On the surface, cane alcohol can seem like a viable alternative to other alcoholic beverages we may be more familiar with. However, a deeper dive into its adverse effects may suggest otherwise. Let’s further examine what it is and evaluate if it's a healthier option so we can make more well-informed alcohol choices.
Cane alcohol is alcohol that is made from the sugar cane plant. The two main types of cane alcohol are pure cane alcohol and alcohol made from molasses — which we know as rum.
Pure cane alcohol is made from organic sugar cane. The plant is cut and milled with water to produce raw sugar cane juice, which is then heated to remove the impurities. The sugar cane juice is fermented and distilled multiple times to reach a high level of purity, which organic cane alcohol is known for. Rum, on the other hand, is made from fermentation of molasses, a byproduct of the sugar-making process. It falls under the general category of cane alcohol but is distinct from pure cane alcohol.
Pure organic cane alcohol is known for its neutral taste and purity, making it adaptable to many different uses.
Organic cane alcohol is used in a variety of different industries aside from alcoholic beverage companies. Some of its other uses include the following:
Cane alcohol is versatile, not just in its applications within different industries but also in the types of alcoholic beverages it can create.
Pure cane alcohol, which is pure alcohol at 98% alcohol by volume, is used to make distilled alcoholic beverages such as liqueurs, vodkas, and bitters. Legality varies widely by country and region. When purchasing or consuming cane alcohol, it’s important to check regional regulations.
Cane alcoholic drinks are extremely popular in Brazil. Three of the most notable include cachaça, aguardente de cana, and simple alcoholic sugar cane distillate — all made from sugar cane juice. Each varies in ABV and has its own minimum and maximum ABV regulations in Brazil.
While cane alcoholic beverages are popular in Brazil, rum is the most popular cane alcohol approved for consumption in the U.S. According to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB), rum may not exceed 95% alcohol by volume but can vary in regulations depending on the area.
So is cane alcohol really so bad, given its popularity and various uses?
Organic sugar cane alcohol in the context of cosmetics preservation and pharmaceuticals can be a great alternative to synthetically produced chemicals. However, in the context of alcoholic beverages, being derived from an organic plant doesn’t negate the toxicity of alcohol.
Just the way a basket of french fries or a carton of apple juice doesn't count as our serving of fruits and vegetables for the day, alcohol made from a plant doesn’t exactly make it a green juice. Organic cane alcohol has the same harmful effects as other alcoholic beverages that are made from other plants. It goes through the same fermentation process that creates alcohol by turning sugar into ethanol. When we consume ethanol, it’s broken down into a toxic compound known as acetaldehyde — the culprit of many of alcohol’s detrimental effects.
A particular study focused on sugar cane spirits found that their consumption produced anxiolytic-like effects in mice, reducing their inhibitions and causing them to behave out of the ordinary, while also causing them liver injury. While the alcohol content in organic cane alcohol can vary depending on the type of alcoholic beverage, it still contains toxic compounds that harm our health.
So, we’ve learned that cane alcohol has the same harmful effects as grain alcohol, but let’s dive into the difference a little more.
Grain and cane alcohol are similar in that they have various uses, and they’re both derived from plants: cane alcohol is from sugar cane and grain alcohol is from other grains such as corn, wheat, or barley. But grain and cane alcohol are distinct due to three main differences:
While sugar cane alcohol has some benefits over grain alcohol, consuming cane alcohol is still associated with many risks.
Sugar cane alcohol is just like any other alcohol in that it is a toxic compound that opens the door to many different complications and consequences. Some of the issues that drinking alcohol leads to include the following:
Due to the way sugar cane alcohol is presented, it also comes with its own risk factors.
Let’s clear up some of the confusion surrounding organic cane alcohol so we can make well-informed decisions about drinking.
Cane alcohol, specifically organic cane alcohol, is associated with many common misconceptions, such as:
After we understand exactly what cane alcohol is we are able to consume more mindfully and safely.
As we’ve learned, consuming cane alcohol comes with many risks. If we choose to drink cane alcohol, we can limit its negative consequences through mindful drinking practices:
Mindfully approaching cane alcohol and alcohol in general can help minimize its adverse effects. However, at the end of the day, alcohol is still alcohol, no matter if it’s organic or derived from a sugar cane plant.
We may have all been duped at some point in our lives by product labeling. Free-range, all-natural, and organic may not always be what we think. Debunking common myths about organic cane alcohol helps us see it for what it is. Pure cane alcohol is a useful, eco-friendly substance when used in the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and food industries. However, as an alcoholic beverage, organic cane alcohol has the same toxic effects as grain alcohol, which we may be more familiar with. The lack of clarity and regulations surrounding cane alcohol makes it even more dangerous than other alcoholic beverages. Gain a better relationship with alcohol by cutting back, whether it be from grain or cane!
If you’ve had rhabdo before, can you drink alcohol now, or should you wait a few months? Learn the facts about rhabdomyolysis and alcohol on the Reframe blog.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
A 19-year-old consumed two liters of red wine. Six hours later, he entered the emergency room intoxicated, uneasy, and sore. He hadn’t taken any medications or other substances, and his medical history was completely unremarkable. After running numerous tests, however, the doctors spotted muscle damage and concluded he had alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis.
Fortunately, he was diagnosed and treated quickly and was able to make a full recovery. But what happens the next time his friends invite him out for drinks? Is it safe to drink alcohol after a rhabdo diagnosis?
Rhabdomyolysis, nicknamed “rhabdo,” is a rare, rapid breakdown of damaged muscle tissue. When our muscles are injured, they deteriorate, releasing a slew of proteins and electrolytes into the bloodstream. This can worsen kidney function and alter the body’s electrolyte balance. If left untreated, rhabdomyolysis can even lead to organ failure.
Any form of muscle damage may cause rhabdo. The most common culprits are physical overexertion, traumatic injury, and excessive heat exposure. More rarely, muscle breakdown occurs due to drug and alcohol use, certain medications, or illnesses.
If left untreated, rhabdo can be deadly. Knowing the signs of this condition helps us seek medical care before it’s too late.
Clinicians identify rhabdomyolysis through a triad of symptoms: myalgia, myoglobinuria, and asthenia. For those of us who aren’t doctors, that translates to muscle pain, tea-colored urine, and weakness.
It’s important to note that experiencing all of these symptoms at once is a bit rare; fewer than 10% of us will have all three. Instead, we’ll probably just notice one common symptom — the dark, discolored urine emblematic of rhabdomyolysis.
The following symptoms are also associated with rhabdo:
Regardless of how your muscle damage manifests, prompt medical care is crucial. If you experience extreme muscle pain, dark urine, swelling, or any of the other symptoms outlined above, head to the hospital. This condition can be life-threatening.
When we have rhabdo, our deteriorating muscles dump a ton of potassium, phosphate, creatine kinase (CK), urate, and myoglobin into our bloodstream. All that gunk eventually reaches our kidneys, which may struggle to filter out those unexpected hemoglobinic pollutants. That’s a fast track to kidney failure and a whole host of other issues.
The consequences of rhabdo are serious. If left untreated, this condition can cause big problems:
Because rhabdomyolysis threatens our lives, we want to take every possible measure to avoid it. In addition to avoiding triggers like prolonged heat exposure and heavy exercise, we may want to consider one other lifestyle change — cutting back on our alcohol intake.
Alcohol is one of the lesser-known causes of rhabdo. Some patients develop this condition after episodes of intoxication or alcohol-induced comas (acute alcoholic myopathy). Others only exhibit symptoms after years of heavy drinking, which we call chronic alcoholic myopathy.
When we consume large amounts of alcohol, we become dehydrated and uninhibited. Both of these changes contribute to our risk of rhabdo. For example, our impaired judgment may lead us to make decisions we usually wouldn’t, resulting in muscle injury from falls or overexertion. These short-term risks may cause us to develop rhabdo.
There’s another facet to alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis: drinking accelerates the muscle breakdown associated with rhabdo. When our liver metabolizes the ethanol found in beer, wine, or cocktails, it produces carcinogenic acetaldehyde. This substance triggers the formation of free radicals — unstable, reactive molecules that destroy the protective membranes of our cells. Over time, this damage adds up, meaning that those of us who drink heavily in the long term may experience muscle breakdown, weakness, and (you guessed it) rhabdo.
So, what can we do if we have this condition? If your urine is tea-colored after drinking or you notice out-of-control muscle aches, you may need to go to the hospital.
Seek medical care immediately if you experience any symptoms of rhabdo. This potentially fatal condition isn’t one we can treat on our own — it requires expert clinical care.
As in most medical emergencies, prompt intervention for rhabdomyolysis is key. The sooner we get to the hospital, the better our outcome will be. Our medical team will strive to promote muscle healing, stop further muscle damage, and protect our kidney function.
All types of rhabdo, including alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis, are treated with fluid management. Mild cases may resolve with a combo of rest and lots of water. In moderate to severe instances, we might require “aggressive repletion” in the form of intravenous fluids administered at the hospital. Those typically include saline or a solution of glucose and sodium bicarbonate (commonly known as baking soda). The purpose of this approach is to flush out the muscle proteins that cause arrhythmia and kidney damage.
Because rhabdo is such a dangerous condition, scientists continue searching for more (and better) ways to treat it. At present, there is no standardized second-line treatment for those whose conditions aren’t improved by fluids. Fortunately, it seems like that’s changing.
Researchers from Tulane University found that corticosteroids dramatically improved the condition of an alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis patient who didn’t respond to fluid management. These drugs have a low toxicity profile, making them potentials option for those who don’t respond to aggressive repletion.
Additionally, medical experts have begun looking into ways to prevent recurrent episodes of rhabdomyolysis.
While we can’t completely eliminate the risk of rhabdo, we can make lifestyle changes that reduce it:
Any small change you make in the right direction will help you avoid rhabdo and improve your overall health.
Rhabdomyolysis and alcohol don’t mix, but can you drink at all after rhabdo? If so, how long should you wait? Is it okay to drink during treatment? Below is a quick reference guide answering the question, “How long after rhabdo can I drink alcohol?”
Abstaining from alcohol entirely is the safest option, but your doctor will have the best recommendations for your particular case.
The connection between alcohol and rhabdomyolysis is complex. Drinking contributes to muscle damage and weakens our immune system — a recipe for rhabdo recurrence. Our best bet is to enjoy some non-alcoholic alternatives while putting our well-being first.
If you start developing health conditions due to drinking, you may want to reevaluate your relationship with alcohol. Reframe offers a framework to help you do just that. Our one-of-a-kind app provides daily inspiration and valuable information, whether you’re quitting or cutting back. You can also enjoy peer support in our 24/7 Forum or regular Zoom meetings. We’re with you every step of the way. Visit the App Store or Google Play today for more information.
A 19-year-old consumed two liters of red wine. Six hours later, he entered the emergency room intoxicated, uneasy, and sore. He hadn’t taken any medications or other substances, and his medical history was completely unremarkable. After running numerous tests, however, the doctors spotted muscle damage and concluded he had alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis.
Fortunately, he was diagnosed and treated quickly and was able to make a full recovery. But what happens the next time his friends invite him out for drinks? Is it safe to drink alcohol after a rhabdo diagnosis?
Rhabdomyolysis, nicknamed “rhabdo,” is a rare, rapid breakdown of damaged muscle tissue. When our muscles are injured, they deteriorate, releasing a slew of proteins and electrolytes into the bloodstream. This can worsen kidney function and alter the body’s electrolyte balance. If left untreated, rhabdomyolysis can even lead to organ failure.
Any form of muscle damage may cause rhabdo. The most common culprits are physical overexertion, traumatic injury, and excessive heat exposure. More rarely, muscle breakdown occurs due to drug and alcohol use, certain medications, or illnesses.
If left untreated, rhabdo can be deadly. Knowing the signs of this condition helps us seek medical care before it’s too late.
Clinicians identify rhabdomyolysis through a triad of symptoms: myalgia, myoglobinuria, and asthenia. For those of us who aren’t doctors, that translates to muscle pain, tea-colored urine, and weakness.
It’s important to note that experiencing all of these symptoms at once is a bit rare; fewer than 10% of us will have all three. Instead, we’ll probably just notice one common symptom — the dark, discolored urine emblematic of rhabdomyolysis.
The following symptoms are also associated with rhabdo:
Regardless of how your muscle damage manifests, prompt medical care is crucial. If you experience extreme muscle pain, dark urine, swelling, or any of the other symptoms outlined above, head to the hospital. This condition can be life-threatening.
When we have rhabdo, our deteriorating muscles dump a ton of potassium, phosphate, creatine kinase (CK), urate, and myoglobin into our bloodstream. All that gunk eventually reaches our kidneys, which may struggle to filter out those unexpected hemoglobinic pollutants. That’s a fast track to kidney failure and a whole host of other issues.
The consequences of rhabdo are serious. If left untreated, this condition can cause big problems:
Because rhabdomyolysis threatens our lives, we want to take every possible measure to avoid it. In addition to avoiding triggers like prolonged heat exposure and heavy exercise, we may want to consider one other lifestyle change — cutting back on our alcohol intake.
Alcohol is one of the lesser-known causes of rhabdo. Some patients develop this condition after episodes of intoxication or alcohol-induced comas (acute alcoholic myopathy). Others only exhibit symptoms after years of heavy drinking, which we call chronic alcoholic myopathy.
When we consume large amounts of alcohol, we become dehydrated and uninhibited. Both of these changes contribute to our risk of rhabdo. For example, our impaired judgment may lead us to make decisions we usually wouldn’t, resulting in muscle injury from falls or overexertion. These short-term risks may cause us to develop rhabdo.
There’s another facet to alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis: drinking accelerates the muscle breakdown associated with rhabdo. When our liver metabolizes the ethanol found in beer, wine, or cocktails, it produces carcinogenic acetaldehyde. This substance triggers the formation of free radicals — unstable, reactive molecules that destroy the protective membranes of our cells. Over time, this damage adds up, meaning that those of us who drink heavily in the long term may experience muscle breakdown, weakness, and (you guessed it) rhabdo.
So, what can we do if we have this condition? If your urine is tea-colored after drinking or you notice out-of-control muscle aches, you may need to go to the hospital.
Seek medical care immediately if you experience any symptoms of rhabdo. This potentially fatal condition isn’t one we can treat on our own — it requires expert clinical care.
As in most medical emergencies, prompt intervention for rhabdomyolysis is key. The sooner we get to the hospital, the better our outcome will be. Our medical team will strive to promote muscle healing, stop further muscle damage, and protect our kidney function.
All types of rhabdo, including alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis, are treated with fluid management. Mild cases may resolve with a combo of rest and lots of water. In moderate to severe instances, we might require “aggressive repletion” in the form of intravenous fluids administered at the hospital. Those typically include saline or a solution of glucose and sodium bicarbonate (commonly known as baking soda). The purpose of this approach is to flush out the muscle proteins that cause arrhythmia and kidney damage.
Because rhabdo is such a dangerous condition, scientists continue searching for more (and better) ways to treat it. At present, there is no standardized second-line treatment for those whose conditions aren’t improved by fluids. Fortunately, it seems like that’s changing.
Researchers from Tulane University found that corticosteroids dramatically improved the condition of an alcohol-induced rhabdomyolysis patient who didn’t respond to fluid management. These drugs have a low toxicity profile, making them potentials option for those who don’t respond to aggressive repletion.
Additionally, medical experts have begun looking into ways to prevent recurrent episodes of rhabdomyolysis.
While we can’t completely eliminate the risk of rhabdo, we can make lifestyle changes that reduce it:
Any small change you make in the right direction will help you avoid rhabdo and improve your overall health.
Rhabdomyolysis and alcohol don’t mix, but can you drink at all after rhabdo? If so, how long should you wait? Is it okay to drink during treatment? Below is a quick reference guide answering the question, “How long after rhabdo can I drink alcohol?”
Abstaining from alcohol entirely is the safest option, but your doctor will have the best recommendations for your particular case.
The connection between alcohol and rhabdomyolysis is complex. Drinking contributes to muscle damage and weakens our immune system — a recipe for rhabdo recurrence. Our best bet is to enjoy some non-alcoholic alternatives while putting our well-being first.
If you start developing health conditions due to drinking, you may want to reevaluate your relationship with alcohol. Reframe offers a framework to help you do just that. Our one-of-a-kind app provides daily inspiration and valuable information, whether you’re quitting or cutting back. You can also enjoy peer support in our 24/7 Forum or regular Zoom meetings. We’re with you every step of the way. Visit the App Store or Google Play today for more information.
Worried about esophagus cancer and wondering if alcohol might be one of the causes? Learn about the science behind the link in our latest blog!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Many of us will remember when Robert Kardashian — O.J. Simpson’s notorious lawyer and Kris Kardashian’s first husband — was diagnosed with esophagus cancer. It seemed to take hold with lightning speed, leaving him unable to talk and eat within weeks. Kardashian passed away only two months after his diagnosis, at age 59.
No matter what you might think of Robert Kardashian — or the whole Kardashian clan, for that matter — we can agree that esophagus cancer is a serious, devastating problem. It is estimated that 22,370 new cases will be diagnosed, and 16,130 lives will be lost to the disease in 2024.
The good news is that esophageal cancer can be prevented by avoiding two of the main causes: smoking and alcohol use. In this article, we will explore the connection between drinking and esophageal cancer and how we can minimize our risks.
Esophageal cancer, or cancer of the esophagus, forms when cells in the lining of the esophagus begin to grow out of control.
The esophagus, also known as the “food pipe,” allows everything we chew and swallow to slide down into our stomach to be digested. While esophagus cancer can start anywhere along this 10- to 13-inch-long tube, it falls into one of two basic types:
Though it originates in the esophagus, esophageal cancer can spread to other parts of the body in three ways: through body tissue, the lymphatic system, and blood. When a doctor makes a diagnosis, the rate at which the cancer has spread will be marked by “stage” numbers ranging from 1 to 4. The lower the number, the better the prognosis — in earlier stages, it might be possible to remove the cancer completely!
Because its symptoms often overlap with other diseases, esophageal cancer tends to sneak up on its victims. What seems like an innocent cough or bout of indigestion could be something more, especially if it persists and comes with other symptoms. Check with your doctor if you have any doubts!
Here are some of the most common symptoms:
While some of these symptoms are a clear sign of a problem, others are more subtle and are not necessarily a sign that something is seriously wrong. However, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and have concerns checked out to catch any problems before they get worse (or just to put our minds at ease!).
The tissues of our digestive tract are sensitive, and many things can irritate them, damaging cells and causing potentially cancerous mutations over time. Here are a few common causes:
What happens if we go to the doctor and they suspect esophagus cancer? They will run several tests to make a diagnosis or rule it out:
All these tests can seem overwhelming, but your medical team won’t run any that aren’t necessary. Either way, it’s worth it to have peace of mind and, if necessary, early treatment.
Treatment for esophageal cancer depends on the stage (how much the cancer has spread), the size of the tumor, and whether or not the lymph nodes have been affected. While earlier stages can be treated and sometimes cured, the situation gets increasingly difficult in later stages. This is why it’s so important to get tested as soon as we suspect something is wrong.
Treatment usually involves a combination of radiation, chemotherapy, or surgery. Because these methods often come with some severe side effects of their own, we may need additional help maintaining proper nutrition. It’s a challenging time, but staying hopeful is crucial! Recovery is possible, and being in the right mindset is critical when it comes to giving ourselves the best possible chance. The body’s ability to heal is amazing, and we’re stronger than we think!
Now that we have an idea of what esophageal cancer is and how it’s treated, let’s take a closer look at one of its potential triggers — alcohol.
Alcohol is a carcinogen, meaning it is a cancer-causing substance. It is responsible for many types of cancer, including liver cancer, breast cancer, head and neck cancer, colorectal cancer (or cancer in the colon and/or rectum), and, yes, esophageal cancer.
The CDC makes it clear: “The less alcohol you drink, the lower your risk for cancer.” The type of alcohol doesn’t matter, either: “All alcoholic drinks, including red and white wine, beer, and liquor, are linked with cancer. The more you drink, the higher your cancer risk.”
According to the WHO, as many as 4% of all cancers diagnosed around the world in 2020 could be linked to drinking. In the U.S., alcohol-related cancers add up to about 75,000 cases and claim up to 19,000 lives each year.
But what is it about alcohol that makes it carcinogenic? There are a few different mechanisms behind alcohol’s cancer-causing properties, but all of them come down to how alcohol interacts with the cells in our body.
So is it all doom and gloom, or is there something we can do to minimize our risk? The good news is that by staying away from booze, we are much less likely to develop esophagus cancer (assuming we don’t continue or pick up smoking and other risky habits).
The process of getting to “low risk” status can take time, but it’s certainly worth it. One pooled analysis showed that after not drinking alcohol for 20 years, people who used to drink regularly had the same risk of esophageal cancer as those who never drank at all. That’s reassuring!
Alcohol-related risk of other cancers also decreases over time as we stop using or cut back on alcohol. Even if the cancer risk doesn’t vanish immediately, our body will begin to heal the moment we make a change. We can also look at it this way: while we can’t guarantee a life without illness if we quit or cut back on drinking, we can guarantee that our risk for cancer continues to rise by continuing to drink too much.
Is there anything else we can do to minimize our risk of esophageal cancer? Absolutely! Some relatively small lifestyle modifications can work wonders when it comes to improving our chances of living a long, happy life:
Esophagus cancer is a heavy topic, but it’s encouraging to know there are ways to decrease our risk. Let’s thank our bodies for the incredible work they do by giving them the care they deserve! In the words of author Jess C. Scott, “The human body is the best work of art.” It’s never too late to give this work of art a bit of extra attention and love.
Many of us will remember when Robert Kardashian — O.J. Simpson’s notorious lawyer and Kris Kardashian’s first husband — was diagnosed with esophagus cancer. It seemed to take hold with lightning speed, leaving him unable to talk and eat within weeks. Kardashian passed away only two months after his diagnosis, at age 59.
No matter what you might think of Robert Kardashian — or the whole Kardashian clan, for that matter — we can agree that esophagus cancer is a serious, devastating problem. It is estimated that 22,370 new cases will be diagnosed, and 16,130 lives will be lost to the disease in 2024.
The good news is that esophageal cancer can be prevented by avoiding two of the main causes: smoking and alcohol use. In this article, we will explore the connection between drinking and esophageal cancer and how we can minimize our risks.
Esophageal cancer, or cancer of the esophagus, forms when cells in the lining of the esophagus begin to grow out of control.
The esophagus, also known as the “food pipe,” allows everything we chew and swallow to slide down into our stomach to be digested. While esophagus cancer can start anywhere along this 10- to 13-inch-long tube, it falls into one of two basic types:
Though it originates in the esophagus, esophageal cancer can spread to other parts of the body in three ways: through body tissue, the lymphatic system, and blood. When a doctor makes a diagnosis, the rate at which the cancer has spread will be marked by “stage” numbers ranging from 1 to 4. The lower the number, the better the prognosis — in earlier stages, it might be possible to remove the cancer completely!
Because its symptoms often overlap with other diseases, esophageal cancer tends to sneak up on its victims. What seems like an innocent cough or bout of indigestion could be something more, especially if it persists and comes with other symptoms. Check with your doctor if you have any doubts!
Here are some of the most common symptoms:
While some of these symptoms are a clear sign of a problem, others are more subtle and are not necessarily a sign that something is seriously wrong. However, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and have concerns checked out to catch any problems before they get worse (or just to put our minds at ease!).
The tissues of our digestive tract are sensitive, and many things can irritate them, damaging cells and causing potentially cancerous mutations over time. Here are a few common causes:
What happens if we go to the doctor and they suspect esophagus cancer? They will run several tests to make a diagnosis or rule it out:
All these tests can seem overwhelming, but your medical team won’t run any that aren’t necessary. Either way, it’s worth it to have peace of mind and, if necessary, early treatment.
Treatment for esophageal cancer depends on the stage (how much the cancer has spread), the size of the tumor, and whether or not the lymph nodes have been affected. While earlier stages can be treated and sometimes cured, the situation gets increasingly difficult in later stages. This is why it’s so important to get tested as soon as we suspect something is wrong.
Treatment usually involves a combination of radiation, chemotherapy, or surgery. Because these methods often come with some severe side effects of their own, we may need additional help maintaining proper nutrition. It’s a challenging time, but staying hopeful is crucial! Recovery is possible, and being in the right mindset is critical when it comes to giving ourselves the best possible chance. The body’s ability to heal is amazing, and we’re stronger than we think!
Now that we have an idea of what esophageal cancer is and how it’s treated, let’s take a closer look at one of its potential triggers — alcohol.
Alcohol is a carcinogen, meaning it is a cancer-causing substance. It is responsible for many types of cancer, including liver cancer, breast cancer, head and neck cancer, colorectal cancer (or cancer in the colon and/or rectum), and, yes, esophageal cancer.
The CDC makes it clear: “The less alcohol you drink, the lower your risk for cancer.” The type of alcohol doesn’t matter, either: “All alcoholic drinks, including red and white wine, beer, and liquor, are linked with cancer. The more you drink, the higher your cancer risk.”
According to the WHO, as many as 4% of all cancers diagnosed around the world in 2020 could be linked to drinking. In the U.S., alcohol-related cancers add up to about 75,000 cases and claim up to 19,000 lives each year.
But what is it about alcohol that makes it carcinogenic? There are a few different mechanisms behind alcohol’s cancer-causing properties, but all of them come down to how alcohol interacts with the cells in our body.
So is it all doom and gloom, or is there something we can do to minimize our risk? The good news is that by staying away from booze, we are much less likely to develop esophagus cancer (assuming we don’t continue or pick up smoking and other risky habits).
The process of getting to “low risk” status can take time, but it’s certainly worth it. One pooled analysis showed that after not drinking alcohol for 20 years, people who used to drink regularly had the same risk of esophageal cancer as those who never drank at all. That’s reassuring!
Alcohol-related risk of other cancers also decreases over time as we stop using or cut back on alcohol. Even if the cancer risk doesn’t vanish immediately, our body will begin to heal the moment we make a change. We can also look at it this way: while we can’t guarantee a life without illness if we quit or cut back on drinking, we can guarantee that our risk for cancer continues to rise by continuing to drink too much.
Is there anything else we can do to minimize our risk of esophageal cancer? Absolutely! Some relatively small lifestyle modifications can work wonders when it comes to improving our chances of living a long, happy life:
Esophagus cancer is a heavy topic, but it’s encouraging to know there are ways to decrease our risk. Let’s thank our bodies for the incredible work they do by giving them the care they deserve! In the words of author Jess C. Scott, “The human body is the best work of art.” It’s never too late to give this work of art a bit of extra attention and love.
Did you know that alcohol is just as harmful to the muscles as it is to the liver? Learn all about alcoholic myopathy and how it’s treated in our latest blog!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
We all know those muscle aches we wake up with the morning after we finish a long hike, try a new kickboxing workout, or stretch our limbs in a new yoga routine. But maybe you’ve experienced this effect after a night of drinking. What gives? Was there a set of jumping jacks (or 10, or 20) you forgot you did between rounds of Trivia Night? Or did a night out on the town magically serve as an equivalent of a trip to the gym?
Turns out, booze itself might be the culprit. Alcohol can induce a condition known as alcoholic myopathy, an uncomfortable muscle condition. Let’s learn what those sore muscles after drinking are all about — and what we can do about it!
Derived from the Greek “myo” (muscle) and “pathy” (suffering), the term myopathy describes various types of muscle disease. What’s behind this “muscle suffering”? It could have a number of different causes, but the result is that the structure, metabolism, or function of our skeletal muscles is affected to the point of interfering with our daily life.
Myopathy can be chronic or acute. Symptoms can range from mildly unpleasant to downright debilitating:
The causes can vary, but generally fall into two categories: inherited and acquired.
Inherited myopathy includes congenital myopathies (in which all muscles are usually affected), those caused by mitochondrial deficiencies, metabolic myopathies (caused by faulty metabolic processes that deplete the muscles of resources they need to function) and muscular dystrophies (progressive degeneration of muscles).
Acquired myopathies, on the other hand, have a number of possible causes ranging from autoimmune or inflammatory diseases to endocrine issues, electrolyte imbalances, illness, and — yes — toxins, such as alcohol.
Early detection is key! A healthcare professional can help pinpoint the root of the problem and make an accurate diagnosis. In the case of alcoholic myopathy, we can do a great deal of prevention before we even get to the point of symptoms.
So what does alcohol have to do with it? Can it really affect our muscles? Science says yes! While the mechanism isn’t very well understood, it’s well-documented and can lead to serious problems if left unaddressed.
How common is alcoholic myopathy? According to an Alcohol Research article, as many as 40% to 60% of people diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD) will develop alcoholic myopathy. While the liver gets the most airtime when it comes to the negative effects of alcohol on the body, muscle disease is actually about five times more common.
Alcoholic myopathy can be acute (arising after a heavy binge) or chronic (building up over time). Here are the signs of each:
There are three main ways in which alcohol messes with our muscles:
While these three are the main mechanisms behind alcoholic myopathy, booze contributes in other ways as well. Its tendency to cause inflammation can make matters worse. It can also cause oxidative stress (a process that contributes to tissue damage), mitochondrial dysfunction (glitches in the ways muscle cells use energy), and epigenetic changes that tweak the cellular processes supporting muscle function.
Finally, alcohol can also make it more difficult to bounce back from tissue injuries — not just because of its effects on muscle growth, but by causing dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
How long does alcoholic myopathy take to develop? It depends. For some of us, the symptoms start cropping up sooner rather than later. However, there are a few factors that tend to make chronic alcoholic myopathy in particular more likely to show up.
Now for the big question, can alcoholic myopathy be reversed? Yes, it can (phew!). If we go easy on the booze, our muscles have a chance to recover. There are several strategies doctors use to give our muscles a helping hand.
So what can you do to give your muscles (and the rest of your body and mind) a breather when it comes to alcohol? Here are a few tips:
We rarely think about how much our muscles do for us every day until something goes wrong or doesn’t feel quite like it should. Let’s be proactive about our health — both when it comes to our muscles and in our journey to a happier, healthier version of ourselves. In the words of writer Haruki Murakami, “I move, therefore I am.” So let’s keep moving!
We all know those muscle aches we wake up with the morning after we finish a long hike, try a new kickboxing workout, or stretch our limbs in a new yoga routine. But maybe you’ve experienced this effect after a night of drinking. What gives? Was there a set of jumping jacks (or 10, or 20) you forgot you did between rounds of Trivia Night? Or did a night out on the town magically serve as an equivalent of a trip to the gym?
Turns out, booze itself might be the culprit. Alcohol can induce a condition known as alcoholic myopathy, an uncomfortable muscle condition. Let’s learn what those sore muscles after drinking are all about — and what we can do about it!
Derived from the Greek “myo” (muscle) and “pathy” (suffering), the term myopathy describes various types of muscle disease. What’s behind this “muscle suffering”? It could have a number of different causes, but the result is that the structure, metabolism, or function of our skeletal muscles is affected to the point of interfering with our daily life.
Myopathy can be chronic or acute. Symptoms can range from mildly unpleasant to downright debilitating:
The causes can vary, but generally fall into two categories: inherited and acquired.
Inherited myopathy includes congenital myopathies (in which all muscles are usually affected), those caused by mitochondrial deficiencies, metabolic myopathies (caused by faulty metabolic processes that deplete the muscles of resources they need to function) and muscular dystrophies (progressive degeneration of muscles).
Acquired myopathies, on the other hand, have a number of possible causes ranging from autoimmune or inflammatory diseases to endocrine issues, electrolyte imbalances, illness, and — yes — toxins, such as alcohol.
Early detection is key! A healthcare professional can help pinpoint the root of the problem and make an accurate diagnosis. In the case of alcoholic myopathy, we can do a great deal of prevention before we even get to the point of symptoms.
So what does alcohol have to do with it? Can it really affect our muscles? Science says yes! While the mechanism isn’t very well understood, it’s well-documented and can lead to serious problems if left unaddressed.
How common is alcoholic myopathy? According to an Alcohol Research article, as many as 40% to 60% of people diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD) will develop alcoholic myopathy. While the liver gets the most airtime when it comes to the negative effects of alcohol on the body, muscle disease is actually about five times more common.
Alcoholic myopathy can be acute (arising after a heavy binge) or chronic (building up over time). Here are the signs of each:
There are three main ways in which alcohol messes with our muscles:
While these three are the main mechanisms behind alcoholic myopathy, booze contributes in other ways as well. Its tendency to cause inflammation can make matters worse. It can also cause oxidative stress (a process that contributes to tissue damage), mitochondrial dysfunction (glitches in the ways muscle cells use energy), and epigenetic changes that tweak the cellular processes supporting muscle function.
Finally, alcohol can also make it more difficult to bounce back from tissue injuries — not just because of its effects on muscle growth, but by causing dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
How long does alcoholic myopathy take to develop? It depends. For some of us, the symptoms start cropping up sooner rather than later. However, there are a few factors that tend to make chronic alcoholic myopathy in particular more likely to show up.
Now for the big question, can alcoholic myopathy be reversed? Yes, it can (phew!). If we go easy on the booze, our muscles have a chance to recover. There are several strategies doctors use to give our muscles a helping hand.
So what can you do to give your muscles (and the rest of your body and mind) a breather when it comes to alcohol? Here are a few tips:
We rarely think about how much our muscles do for us every day until something goes wrong or doesn’t feel quite like it should. Let’s be proactive about our health — both when it comes to our muscles and in our journey to a happier, healthier version of ourselves. In the words of writer Haruki Murakami, “I move, therefore I am.” So let’s keep moving!
Discover why Ambien and alcohol don’t mix, the bad side effects of Ambien, and whether this drug is addictive. We’re answering all your sleep med questions on today’s blog.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
After yet another night of tossing and turning, you decide to ask your doctor about medications for insomnia. You’ve only heard of one — Ambien — but you’re not sure whether it’s a good fit for your symptoms. It seems like a pretty serious drug; can you even drink while taking it?
No, you can’t mix alcohol and Ambien. Why not?
Today, we’re exploring the dangerous combination of taking Ambien with alcohol. We’ll also answer your frequently asked questions about this sleep med, including “Is Ambien addictive?” and “Can you take Ambien every night?”
Ambien, available under the generic name zolpidem, is a prescription drug used to treat insomnia — difficulty falling or staying asleep — in adults. It’s part of a drug class called “sedative-hypnotics,” which includes most sleeping pills and tranquilizers.
Ambien works by activating a neurotransmitter called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid, for our fellow neuroscience fans), which inhibits neuronal behaviors responsible for insomnia. It’s so strong that most of us will be out like a light within 30 minutes of taking it.
Despite that efficacy, zolpidem isn’t prescribed much these days. There are three reasons that Ambien has fallen from popularity: its harsh side effects, addictive potential, and severe interactions with substances like alcohol.
Like any medication, Ambien is associated with side effects. While some issues may only manifest when starting the drug or upping our dose, we should talk to our doctor about those that don’t improve over time. The following are considered common complications of zolpidem:
Doctors classify certain side effects as severe; if we experience any of these, we should immediately seek medical attention:
When people talk about the bad side effects of Ambien, they’re usually talking about the dangerous sleep behaviors associated with this drug. While under the influence of zolpidem, some patients have gotten out of bed and driven their cars, sleepwalked, prepared food, or initiated sex with their partners. They were fully unaware the entire time. Upon waking, they could not remember doing any of it. If we learn that we have engaged in any activity while taking Ambien, we should discontinue the medication and contact our doctor immediately.
While Ambien is technically less habit-forming than benzodiazepines (Valium and Xanax, to name a few), it still has a high addictive potential. Our body becomes accustomed to the neurochemical changes associated with the drug, which means that we might develop a tolerance for zolpidem and need more of it to achieve the same effect.
We may also experience withdrawal symptoms like irritability, rebound insomnia, anxiety, and even seizures when we skip a dose. This occurs because the brain expects Ambien-induced neurochemical activity every night. When that doesn’t happen, our brain kicks into high gear in an attempt to reach equilibrium.
At the same time, we begin to associate Ambien with sleep and may doubt our ability to get a good night’s rest on our own. Some people take more of the drug than recommended or ask their doctor to continue prescribing it. Over time, this combination of physical and psychological dependence can develop into a full-blown addiction.
So, is it safe to take 5mg of Ambien every night? What about 10mg?
We can take Ambien every night for the duration of our treatment, which should not exceed six weeks. Most of us will only receive prescriptions lasting between a few days and four weeks. This is because the FDA specifically cautions providers that long-term administration of this drug is not recommended, and “treatment should be as short as possible.”
To put it more directly: we may take Ambien every night while it is prescribed to us, but we probably won’t be on it for very long. Part of the reason for the FDA’s warning is the risk of dependence (as outlined above). Another deterrent is Ambien’s strong interaction with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants like alcohol.
Both Ambien and alcohol are CNS depressants, which means they slow down our brain’s activity. When combined, the depressant effects of both the drug and the drink are doubled, which impairs us further and makes us vulnerable to life-threatening health problems.
For example, combining alcohol and Ambien can cause severe levels of sedation, cognitive impairment, and worsened motor functioning. This makes us more likely to fall, accidentally injure ourselves, or make poor decisions with lasting consequences.
However, there’s a much bigger risk of mixing these substances. Together, Ambien and alcohol may cause respiratory depression. This is the medical term for slow, shallow breathing that causes carbon dioxide to build up in our blood and reduces the amount of oxygen that can reach our lungs. We may not realize anything is wrong and think we’re just falling asleep. Our loved ones might observe symptoms like labored breathing, blue skin, nausea, headache, and fatigue. Respiratory depression is a leading cause of fatal overdoses.
If your doctor has prescribed Ambien, they have determined that the benefits of this drug outweigh the downsides associated with it. By following their advice and the medication guidelines, we can stay safe while taking zolpidem. There are a few best practices we can follow while on this medication:
Before starting any new prescription drug regimen, it’s a good idea to do some research about the way your meds can interact with substances like alcohol.
Because of the risks inherent in mixing these two substances, it’s best to abstain entirely from alcohol while taking Ambien.
If we must imbibe, it’s crucial to wait for alcohol to completely leave our system before taking this sedative-hypnotic medication. How long that process takes depends on our weight, gender, and what we drink.
While the internet is full of estimates — for example, it generally takes an hour for the average person to metabolize a standard drink versus 14 to 17 hours to clear Ambien from their system — it’s best to talk to our doctor instead of guessing when it’ll be safe to take sleeping pills after drinking. The risks are too great to leave it up to chance.
Most medical professionals will assure us that it’s never a good idea to combine Ambien and alcohol. If we’ve been prescribed this drug and drink often, we should discuss our alcohol intake with our primary care provider and come up with a new plan moving forward. After all, there are plenty of substitutes for zolpidem.
Ambien isn’t the only option for those of us struggling with insomnia. To improve our sleep quality without taking zolpidem, let’s consider other medications, herbal remedies, supplements, and behavioral changes.
First, we can talk to our doctor about prescription alternatives to Ambien. Sleep aids like Lunesta (eszopiclone), Sonata (zaleplon), and Vistaril (hydroxyzine) are popular options. These medications use different methods of action and may better meet our needs. Depending on our experience with Ambien or concerns about the drug, our provider might choose to prescribe one of these substitutes instead of zolpidem.
We may also want to explore the wide variety of herbs and supplements on the market. Many of us have probably taken melatonin to help with insomnia, which is a hormone available in the form of pills or teas. If that hasn’t worked in the past, we can consider valerian root, chamomile, lavender, green tea, and magnesium, which are all recommended for those struggling to sleep.
Finally, behavioral changes can make a massive difference in our insomnia. Establishing a consistent bedtime and practicing mindfulness are two easy ways to prime ourselves for a good night’s rest. We can also cut back on caffeine, naps, and screen time, which all disrupt our sleep-wake cycle. Incorporating regular exercise into our routine can also contribute to some well-timed, much-needed exhaustion.
Now we know that mixing Ambien and alcohol is a bad idea — in fact, drinking while on this drug can be life-threatening. Because both substances are CNS depressants, we may be more likely to experience side effects like dizziness, falling, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and respiratory depression when we combine them. In short, drinking on Ambien is never worth the risk.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to address sleep disorders without Ambien. Alcohol may play a role in our insomnia. If we’re looking for relief from sleepless nights, we may want to start by reevaluating our relationship with alcohol. Drinking disrupts our sleep-wake cycle, which increases our risk of issues like insomnia.
If you’d like to quit or cut back, Reframe offers science-backed readings and community support that can kickstart your journey to recovery. To learn more, visit the App Store or Google Play today!
After yet another night of tossing and turning, you decide to ask your doctor about medications for insomnia. You’ve only heard of one — Ambien — but you’re not sure whether it’s a good fit for your symptoms. It seems like a pretty serious drug; can you even drink while taking it?
No, you can’t mix alcohol and Ambien. Why not?
Today, we’re exploring the dangerous combination of taking Ambien with alcohol. We’ll also answer your frequently asked questions about this sleep med, including “Is Ambien addictive?” and “Can you take Ambien every night?”
Ambien, available under the generic name zolpidem, is a prescription drug used to treat insomnia — difficulty falling or staying asleep — in adults. It’s part of a drug class called “sedative-hypnotics,” which includes most sleeping pills and tranquilizers.
Ambien works by activating a neurotransmitter called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid, for our fellow neuroscience fans), which inhibits neuronal behaviors responsible for insomnia. It’s so strong that most of us will be out like a light within 30 minutes of taking it.
Despite that efficacy, zolpidem isn’t prescribed much these days. There are three reasons that Ambien has fallen from popularity: its harsh side effects, addictive potential, and severe interactions with substances like alcohol.
Like any medication, Ambien is associated with side effects. While some issues may only manifest when starting the drug or upping our dose, we should talk to our doctor about those that don’t improve over time. The following are considered common complications of zolpidem:
Doctors classify certain side effects as severe; if we experience any of these, we should immediately seek medical attention:
When people talk about the bad side effects of Ambien, they’re usually talking about the dangerous sleep behaviors associated with this drug. While under the influence of zolpidem, some patients have gotten out of bed and driven their cars, sleepwalked, prepared food, or initiated sex with their partners. They were fully unaware the entire time. Upon waking, they could not remember doing any of it. If we learn that we have engaged in any activity while taking Ambien, we should discontinue the medication and contact our doctor immediately.
While Ambien is technically less habit-forming than benzodiazepines (Valium and Xanax, to name a few), it still has a high addictive potential. Our body becomes accustomed to the neurochemical changes associated with the drug, which means that we might develop a tolerance for zolpidem and need more of it to achieve the same effect.
We may also experience withdrawal symptoms like irritability, rebound insomnia, anxiety, and even seizures when we skip a dose. This occurs because the brain expects Ambien-induced neurochemical activity every night. When that doesn’t happen, our brain kicks into high gear in an attempt to reach equilibrium.
At the same time, we begin to associate Ambien with sleep and may doubt our ability to get a good night’s rest on our own. Some people take more of the drug than recommended or ask their doctor to continue prescribing it. Over time, this combination of physical and psychological dependence can develop into a full-blown addiction.
So, is it safe to take 5mg of Ambien every night? What about 10mg?
We can take Ambien every night for the duration of our treatment, which should not exceed six weeks. Most of us will only receive prescriptions lasting between a few days and four weeks. This is because the FDA specifically cautions providers that long-term administration of this drug is not recommended, and “treatment should be as short as possible.”
To put it more directly: we may take Ambien every night while it is prescribed to us, but we probably won’t be on it for very long. Part of the reason for the FDA’s warning is the risk of dependence (as outlined above). Another deterrent is Ambien’s strong interaction with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants like alcohol.
Both Ambien and alcohol are CNS depressants, which means they slow down our brain’s activity. When combined, the depressant effects of both the drug and the drink are doubled, which impairs us further and makes us vulnerable to life-threatening health problems.
For example, combining alcohol and Ambien can cause severe levels of sedation, cognitive impairment, and worsened motor functioning. This makes us more likely to fall, accidentally injure ourselves, or make poor decisions with lasting consequences.
However, there’s a much bigger risk of mixing these substances. Together, Ambien and alcohol may cause respiratory depression. This is the medical term for slow, shallow breathing that causes carbon dioxide to build up in our blood and reduces the amount of oxygen that can reach our lungs. We may not realize anything is wrong and think we’re just falling asleep. Our loved ones might observe symptoms like labored breathing, blue skin, nausea, headache, and fatigue. Respiratory depression is a leading cause of fatal overdoses.
If your doctor has prescribed Ambien, they have determined that the benefits of this drug outweigh the downsides associated with it. By following their advice and the medication guidelines, we can stay safe while taking zolpidem. There are a few best practices we can follow while on this medication:
Before starting any new prescription drug regimen, it’s a good idea to do some research about the way your meds can interact with substances like alcohol.
Because of the risks inherent in mixing these two substances, it’s best to abstain entirely from alcohol while taking Ambien.
If we must imbibe, it’s crucial to wait for alcohol to completely leave our system before taking this sedative-hypnotic medication. How long that process takes depends on our weight, gender, and what we drink.
While the internet is full of estimates — for example, it generally takes an hour for the average person to metabolize a standard drink versus 14 to 17 hours to clear Ambien from their system — it’s best to talk to our doctor instead of guessing when it’ll be safe to take sleeping pills after drinking. The risks are too great to leave it up to chance.
Most medical professionals will assure us that it’s never a good idea to combine Ambien and alcohol. If we’ve been prescribed this drug and drink often, we should discuss our alcohol intake with our primary care provider and come up with a new plan moving forward. After all, there are plenty of substitutes for zolpidem.
Ambien isn’t the only option for those of us struggling with insomnia. To improve our sleep quality without taking zolpidem, let’s consider other medications, herbal remedies, supplements, and behavioral changes.
First, we can talk to our doctor about prescription alternatives to Ambien. Sleep aids like Lunesta (eszopiclone), Sonata (zaleplon), and Vistaril (hydroxyzine) are popular options. These medications use different methods of action and may better meet our needs. Depending on our experience with Ambien or concerns about the drug, our provider might choose to prescribe one of these substitutes instead of zolpidem.
We may also want to explore the wide variety of herbs and supplements on the market. Many of us have probably taken melatonin to help with insomnia, which is a hormone available in the form of pills or teas. If that hasn’t worked in the past, we can consider valerian root, chamomile, lavender, green tea, and magnesium, which are all recommended for those struggling to sleep.
Finally, behavioral changes can make a massive difference in our insomnia. Establishing a consistent bedtime and practicing mindfulness are two easy ways to prime ourselves for a good night’s rest. We can also cut back on caffeine, naps, and screen time, which all disrupt our sleep-wake cycle. Incorporating regular exercise into our routine can also contribute to some well-timed, much-needed exhaustion.
Now we know that mixing Ambien and alcohol is a bad idea — in fact, drinking while on this drug can be life-threatening. Because both substances are CNS depressants, we may be more likely to experience side effects like dizziness, falling, confusion, difficulty concentrating, and respiratory depression when we combine them. In short, drinking on Ambien is never worth the risk.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to address sleep disorders without Ambien. Alcohol may play a role in our insomnia. If we’re looking for relief from sleepless nights, we may want to start by reevaluating our relationship with alcohol. Drinking disrupts our sleep-wake cycle, which increases our risk of issues like insomnia.
If you’d like to quit or cut back, Reframe offers science-backed readings and community support that can kickstart your journey to recovery. To learn more, visit the App Store or Google Play today!
