Anyone who drinks regularly urged to check body for warning sign that could mean you need to see a doctor
Many of us like a cheeky drink (or two) but there's something to keep an eye out for when it comes to your health.
As we head into the New Year, there's a high chance you'll indulge in a drink (or two, or three) to celebrate with friends and loved ones.
However, if you're a fan of a regular tipple you're being urged to keep an eye out for a symptom which could be a warning sign of a serious health problem.
We all know that too much alcohol isn't good for us, but it could be doing more damage than just leaving you with a raging hangover or worries about the night before.
Hangxiety, anyone? Maybe it's time to give Dry January a try if you recognise this issue.
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Experts have shared a list of signs and symptoms to keep an eye out for.
The major one which should have you heading to the doctor is unexplained bruising.
Maybe you've explained it away as clumsiness or simply from having one too many and falling over, but it can also mean something more dangerous.
Those in the know strongly advise that bruising is a warning you shouldn't ignore.
If your drinking has become more regular or heavy, you might notice you start to bruise and bleed more easily.
Bruising can be an indicator that your alcohol consumption is doing severe damage to your body and immune system.
Alcohol can harm your bone marrow, and in turn lower your platelet count.
This can result in bruising more easily and for them to take a longer time to heal.
The other reason is alcohol can thin the blood, and also works as a vasodilator.
This means your blood vessels expand, and even a light knock can cause the veins and vessels to rupture and cause the tell-tale bruise.
According to rehabilitation provider The Priory, frequent unexplained bruises and scrapes are a common sign that someone may be falling into alcoholism.
As well as a lower platelet count, alcohol abuse can also disrupt the vital clotting processes, which when combined with the fact you're more likely to fall over when drunk, makes it a risky combination.
It's not just the unsightly appearance of bruises which you should be worried about either, as reduced clotting can also lead to an increased risk of stroke.
According to the NHS, too much alcohol can also cause your gums to bleed more easily especially when brushing, or cause problems like frequent nosebleeds too.
If any of this sounds familiar, it may be worth seeking a doctors appointment to check on your health, as reducing your alcohol intake can come with a whole host of other health benefits such as lowering your blood pressure.
Topics: Health, Alcohol, Food and Drink, NHS
Jen Thomas