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Heart Health Library

Our Health Library does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their heart health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Alcohol Increases the Risk of Cold Injury

Overview

Drinking alcohol may increase the risk of injury from cold exposure. Alcohol:

Changes your body's ability to regulate body temperature.
Changes your judgment. For example, a person may not put on more clothing when it is needed if his or her judgment is changed by alcohol.
Can cause blood vessels in the skin to get bigger (dilate). This increases heat loss.

Related Information

Cold Temperature Exposure

Credits

Current as of: July 10, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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