Could a Booze Binge Be Fueled by a Bonked Head?

According to a new study, females who experienced a concussion early in life may experience issues with alcoholism as adults. In a study performed at The Ohio State University, mice were tested on the effects of a concussion how it is linked to alcohol abuse later in life. This study also experimented on whether or not the effects could be reversed, thus eliminating the odds of needing treatment from alcohol and drug rehab.

Alcohol as a Reward

In this experiment, mice were given a concussion at the age similar to that of a 6 to 12-year-old human. The mice were given the choice between a bottle of water or a bottle of increasing doses of ethanol. For the most part, the mice were drawn to the latter.

The tests showed that the mice were not drawn to the ethanol because it affected how they processed the substance, however it did show that the injured mice used the alcohol as a reward. The research concluded that the way that pleasure and awards are processed in the brain is linked to alcohol consumption, which could easily lead to young girls needing to seek treatment in alcohol and drug rehab.

Reversal

Although females with minor youth brain injuries are linked to a higher risk with alcohol abuse later in life, researchers have found that an enriched environment may be able to reverse these symptoms. When the mice were given toys, wheels to run on and other brain-stimulating activities, they were less likely to choose the bottle with ethanol.

The better environment for the mice reflects the need for good follow-up care for girls who have sustained concussions. With rehabilitation and proper care for these girls, the role of alcohol as a reward in their lives can be reversed and decrease the odds of them needing treatment from alcohol or drug rehab later in life.

Leah Ferguson is a health writer reporter for Fusion 360, an SEO and content marketing agency. Information provided by Odyssey House. Follow on Twitter