Alcohol abuse harms the body in many ways and may also induce symptoms of underlying health conditions. Some people experience chest pain during or after heavy drinking. This pain can range from moderate to severe and may be a sign of several different issues, including some potentially fatal. Chest pain after drinking should never be ignored. Even if the symptoms are not something dire at the moment, consistent pain after using alcohol may be a sign of alcohol use disorder. Only a doctor can properly diagnose chest pain, but here are some reasons why you may be experiencing chest pain after alcohol use.
Alcohol abuse can have immediate and lasting physical effects. This is why individuals who may be abusing alcohol should reach out to The Arbor Behavioral Health to learn more about our alcohol addiction treatment programs.
How Alcohol Abuse Contributes to Anxiety Disorders
While anxiety is a mental health issue, the symptoms can be very physical. Alcohol use triggers anxiety, especially among those who already suffer from anxiety and panic attacks. Hangover anxiety is a common cause of chest tightness and pain. After a drinking binge, heavy drinkers may also begin to experience atrial fibrillation or heart palpations. This can cause a rapid or irregular heartbeat, weakness, and trouble breathing. Atrial fibrillation also increases the chances of stroke and other internal damage due to blood clots.
This contributes to a damaged mental state leaving individuals more susceptible to developing an anxiety disorder. At the same time, the stress that alcohol abuse puts on the body can contribute to the development of not just anxiety but depression. Fortunately, The Arbor Behavioral Health offers comprehensive mental health treatment in support of its alcohol addiction treatment. Often, this takes the form of dual diagnosis treatment, where the physical symptoms of alcohol abuse are treated at the same time as the ancillary mental issues that arise from it are.
Chest Pain After Heavy Drinking: Organ Stress Caused by Alcohol Abuse
Chest pain after heavy alcohol use may also be a sign of cardiomyopathy, a condition in which the heart expands while blood vessels become small and weak. This condition can be worsened by heavy alcohol use and heart failure. Pancreatitis may also present as chest pain after drinking. This condition can be caused by years of alcohol abuse and may flare up every time alcohol enters the system. Anyone experiencing chest pain after alcohol use should see a doctor and consider seeking professional treatment for alcohol addiction.
Discover How The Arbor Behavioral Health Can Help
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, now is the time to reach out for help. At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. We use an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor, you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. Some of our treatment programs include:
- Men’s Rehab Program
- Women’s Rehab Program
- Residential Care Program
- Extended Care Program
- Intensive Outpatient Program
- Sober Living Program
- Alumni Program
Across all our treatment programs addressing alcohol use disorder or substance use disorders, we offer individuals a wide range of therapies, such as:
- Adventure Therapy
- EMDR Therapy
- Equine Assisted Therapy
- Family Support Groups
- Group Therapy Program
- Holistic Therapy
- Nutrition Therapy
We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call 844.413.2690