120 PHYSIOLOGY AND TEMPERANCE. 



on the different organs and tissues of the body. The effects 

 of alcohol are conveniently divided into four stages. 



THE FIRST STAGE. The first effect upon th j nervous 

 system is to weaken the capillary nerves, and thus allow 

 the small blood-vessels in all parts of the body to dilate. 

 This produces, as we have already said, a general redness 

 of the skin, most noticeable in the hands and face. But 

 the same condition of the small blood-vessels exists inwardly 

 as is found on the surface of the body. There is increased 

 circulation in the tiny blood-vessels throughout the gray 

 matter and amongst the white fibres, wriich causes an exalta- 

 tion of the mental faculties and a general exhilaration. This 

 constitutes the first stage. 



, If its use is now discontinued the poisonous effects pass, off, 

 the blood-vessels regain their natural size, and the normal 

 condition of the system is restored. But even this temporary 

 stimulation is followed by reaction, and the individual feels 

 a corresponding depression or prostration, while the aching 

 head shows that the brain tissue has been exposed to the 

 ravages of an injurious agent. If addicted to the use of 

 alcohol for some time, though only to the extent of this 

 first stage, serious results may follow. The coats of the 

 small blood-vessels become weakened and diseased. The 

 increased force of the heart may burst the weakened coat 

 and allow the blood to escape into the brain substance, and 

 by pressure render the victim unconscious. He has, in fact, 

 been seized with an apoplectic fit, and if the escaped blood 

 is sufficiently large in amount, death will be the issue, or if 

 life be spared he will almost certainly lose much of his 

 mental power. 



THE SECOND STAGE. If the individual continue to imbibe 

 alcohol, the condition of the first stage gradually changes 

 and other symptoms appear. The voluntary muscles become 

 affected. They are no longer under the complete control of 



