China has a long history of alcohol culture, with the habit of drinking dating back to ancient times. Nowadays, social interactions such as gatherings, treating guests, banquets, and networking often involve drinking. However, some people may experience stomach bleeding after consuming alcohol. What causes alcohol-induced stomach bleeding and how can it be treated?
Causes of Alcohol-Induced Stomach Bleeding
Alcohol has a strong stimulating effect on the stomach. Consuming large amounts of alcohol can lead to excessive stimulation of the stomach, causing rapid contractions. Mild cases may result in vomiting, while severe cases can damage the gastric mucosa and cause stomach bleeding.
Treatment for Alcohol-Induced Stomach Bleeding
Quit Smoking and Drinking
Smoking not only harms the lungs but also has negative effects on the stomach. Smoking can disrupt the function of the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to the reflux of bile from the duodenum into the stomach. High concentrations of bile can severely damage the gastric mucosa and affect the healing of gastric ulcers, thereby worsening symptoms of stomach bleeding.
Drinking alcohol, especially high-proof spirits, can damage the protective lining of the stomach mucosa. This not only affects ulcer healing but is also a major cause of stomach bleeding.
Avoid Excessive Eating and Drinking
Participating in social events often leads to excessive eating and drinking, which can disrupt the normal functioning of the stomach. This imbalance can cause stomach bleeding or exacerbate existing bleeding.
Avoid Irritating Foods
After experiencing alcohol-induced stomach bleeding, it is advisable to avoid consuming foods that are known to be irritants. This includes spicy peppers, coffee, strong tea, soda, and acidic beverages, all of which can worsen symptoms of stomach bleeding.
Develop Good Eating Habits
Eat meals at regular intervals, eat until 70% full, sit while eating, chew food slowly, and reduce the digestive load on the stomach. This can ensure that excessive gastric acid secretion is avoided and maintain the rhythmic function of the gastrointestinal tract, preventing a recurrence of stomach bleeding.
The Harmful Effects of Drinking Alcohol
1. Drinking alcohol directly damages the liver, leading to alcoholic liver disease, hepatitis, cirrhosis, decreased visual acuity, weakened detoxification ability, compromised immune system, and increased susceptibility to infections and tumors.
2. Drinking alcohol harms the stomach, affects digestion, weakens the body, and increases the risk of other diseases.
3. Drinking alcohol can also harm the heart, spleen, and pancreas and may lead to conditions such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and pancreatitis.
4. Drinking alcohol can damage the kidneys, causing prostatitis and affecting sexual function.
5. Drinking alcohol harms the nerves. People who frequently abuse alcohol can develop dependency, exhibit irritable and restless behavior.
6. Drinking alcohol can damage one's appearance, causing a withered and haggard appearance, as well as accelerated skin aging.
Precautions when Drinking Alcohol
1. Moderate alcohol consumption is beneficial for health, while excessive drinking is harmful. Therefore, those who enjoy alcohol should control their consumption and avoid excessive drinking.
2. Alcohol has a significant effect on the gastrointestinal tract, especially high-proof spirits. Therefore, it is advisable to eat something before drinking to line the stomach, with starchy foods such as steamed buns being the best choice.
3. Alcohol has a stimulating effect on the brain and nerves. Excessive alcohol consumption can cause hallucinations and delayed reactions. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid driving after drinking to prevent traffic accidents.
