Effect of alcohol on blood pressure is a “U” curve, it decreases first and then raises. Heart rate generally increases with intake of alcohol. The rhythm may become irregular with an alcoholic binge due to atrial fibrillation. If the alcoholic remains in a cold place for long time with poor clothing, hypothermia may ensue. The loss of body heat is potentiated by the dilatation of cutaneous vessels. If there is profound hypothermia, heart rate may fall.
