Alcohol and lung derangements: An overview

Alcohol use disorder: A pre-existing condition for COVID-19?

“…In spite of a recent report that heavy alcohol intake is not associated with COVID-19 hospitalization in the United Kingdom ( Hamer, Kivimäki, Gale, & Batty, 2020 ), there are numerous ways in which alcohol misuse should be problematic in the context of COVID-19 infection ( Testino, 2020 ). Alcohol has a negative impact on lung innate defense and response to injury (S. M. Yeligar & Wyatt, 2019 ). It has long been known that alcohol impairs the ability of the lung to fight infection (S. M. Yeligar et al, 2016 ).…”

Binge drinking and the risks to adolescent health

“…Table 1. Effects of alcohol on different organ/structures body of the body organ/system effects Heart and cardiovascular system Cardiomyopathy, cardiac fibrosis, ischemia, congestive cardiac insufficiency, changes in heart rhythm with atrial fibrillation and other arrhythmias, high blood pressure, strokes and hypertension [17][18][19] Lungs Lower levels of nitric oxide in the lungs, which can make breathing more difficult; oxidative stress and diminished lung host defense mechanisms [20][21] Oral cavity Increased likelihood of periodontal disease, cavities, tooth wear and halitosis, in addition to the risk of developing cancer in the oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx and esophagus [22][23] Liver Fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, fibrosis and cirrhosis and portal hypertension [24][25] Gastrointestinal tract Esophageal and gastric dysmotility, gastritis and mucosal atrophy [26][27] Pancreas The pancreas produces toxins, which can lead to increased inflammation and pancreatitis 28 Immune System Immune system is depressed in the 24 hours following a binge with susceptibility to flu, pneumonia, tuberculosis, and COVID-19 [29][30] Intestine Alcohol-induced dysbiosis and barrier dysfunction; changing the intestinal microbiota composition and/or function; impaired intestinal nutrient absorption, disruption of lymphatic function, and increased bacterial toxin translocation 19;31 Musculoskeletal system Disruption of bone remodeling 19 Others Cancer of the breast (among females), liver, colon, rectum, mouth, pharynx, larynx, and esophagus 23…”

Alcoholism as a Risk Factor for COVID-19: Boosting Inflammatory Response

“…The misconception that alcohol averts infection of COVID-19 encouraged the WHO (World Health Organization, 2020) and the NIAAA (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, 2020) to announce that excessive consumption of alcohol does not prevent or cease COVID-19. However it has a harmful effects on innate immunity of lungs 56 . It has extensively been identified that alcohol damages the capability of the pulmonary system to combat infection number of situations with shortness of breath 58 , therefore implying the threat for enhanced dyspnea in the patients of COVID-19 along with alcohol use disorder.…”