If you’re asking questions like, “How long does alcohol stay in your system?” it could be a sign you’re worried about the amount of alcohol you consume. Find support and effective treatments at Santé Center for Healing inpatient alcohol rehab center. For more information, call Santé Center for Healing today at 866.238.3154.
How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Your System?
Many studies have been conducted in an effort to understand how alcohol is metabolized and how long alcohol remains detectable in the body. There is no single answer to the question.
There are a number of different variables, including the kind of test that’s being used to detect alcohol. For example, alcohol can remain detectable in a hair follicle test for up to 90 days.
Other factors that can determine how long alcohol is detectable include:
- Genetics
- Sex
- Body fat
- Age
- Food consumption
- Ethnicity
- Medications
- Frequency of use
Generally speaking, people with higher percentages of body fat retain alcohol longer. Older adults may take longer to metabolize alcohol because their liver functions are slower. Binge drinking—consuming four or more drinks in a single session for women and five or more men—can cause alcohol to remain in your system for a longer time.
Alcohol Detection by Testing Method
Your body metabolizes alcohol by oxidizing ethanol through the liver. A small portion of alcohol is left and excreted through breath, urine, feces, sweat, and saliva. Each type of alcohol test has different detection windows, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Time estimates are still affected by individual factors, such as body fat, genetics, and use.
Breath
Breath tests are taken with a breathalyzer. Alcohol may show up on a breathalyzer up to 24 hours after your last drink.
Blood
Testing alcohol through blood requires a blood draw. Alcohol can remain in the blood for up to 12 hours.
Urine
In a traditional urine test, alcohol can remain present for up to 12 hours. With an ethyl glucuronide test, urine may be detected for three to five days.
Hair
Hair retains traces of alcohol longer than any other testing substance — up to 90 days.
Saliva
A saliva test can detect alcohol for up to 48 hours after your last drink.
What Are the Effects of Alcohol Abuse?
Excessive drinking over a long period has many negative effects on physical and mental health. Alcohol misuse may increase your risk for:
- Weakened bones
- Some cancers, including bowel and breast cancer
- Pancreatitis
- Immune system damage
- Liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer
- Brain damage, including problems with memory and logical thinking
- Heart damage and other cardiovascular health risks
- Stroke
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Hallucinations
The effects of alcohol abuse can also extend to the social and economic components of a person’s life. Developing an alcohol use disorder can erode relationships and career or educational goals. It may also lead to financial or legal troubles that follow you for the rest of your life.
Signs of Alcohol Misuse
The line between safe alcohol use and overuse is easily blurred. Some signs that you or a loved one may be developing a dependence include:
- Using alcohol in situations where it is unsafe, such as while driving
- Continuing to use alcohol despite negative consequences, such as losing your job
- Having strong cravings for alcohol
- Being unsuccessful at attempts to cut down on alcohol use despite the desire to do so
- You need more alcohol to feel the desired effects of it
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like nausea or shaking when you don’t drink is also a warning sign that your drinking has become out of control.
Find Help at Santé Center for Healing for Alcohol Abuse
If testing positive for alcohol is something that concerns you, it may be time to seek treatment for an alcohol use disorder. Call Santé Center for Healing at 866.238.3154 or contact us online and learn more about how alcohol affects your health.
