Alcohol affects several parts of the body immediately. Several factors are involved, such as the amount of alcohol consumed, the size of the person, and whether or not there is food in the person's stomach.

Brain- Alcohol reaches the brain almost as soon as it is consumed. It depresses the activity of the brain, slowing the work of the nervous system. Thought processes are disorganized, and memory and concentration are dulled.

Liver- The liver, in a process called oxidation, changes alcohol to water, carbon dioxide, and energy. The liver can oxidize only about 1/2 ounce of alcohol an hour. There is no way to speed up this process. Until the liver has time to oxidize all the alcohol, the alcohol keeps circulating through all body parts.

Blood Vessels- The blood carries the alcohol to all parts of the body, including the heart, liver, and brain. When alcohol enters the blood, it causes the blood vessels to dilate or widen. The result is an increased flow of blood, especially to the skin. This makes the skin feel flush and warm. However, it is an artificial warmth. The increase of blood flow near the surface of the skin causes the body to lose heat by radiation- body temperature actually decreases. Alcohol causes an increase in heart rate and an increase in blood pressure.

Kidneys- Alcohol affects the kidneys by causing them to produce more urine. (This is done indirectly. Alcohol affects the pituitary gland, which, in turn, acts on the kidneys.) This is one reason a person feels dehydrated the day after heavy drinking.

Stomach- Because the alcohol molecule is very small and water soluble, it does not have to be digested. It can be immediately absorbed into the blood from the stomach. Having food in the stomach slows the absorption process. Even so, food will not keep a person from getting drunk if he or she drinks too much. Alcohol increases the flow of gastric juices from the stomach lining. Larger amounts of alcohol cause a larger flow of these high-acid juices, irritating the stomach lining. Repeated irritation can cause an open sore called an ulcer.