National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level 2 (NCAC II) Practice Exam Exam

Which organ is NOT directly affected by alcohol consumption?

1. Kidneys

2. Brain

3. Liver

4. Ears

The correct answer is: Ears

The organ that is not directly affected by alcohol consumption is the ears. While consistent alcohol use can lead to conditions that may indirectly impact hearing, such as nutritional deficiencies or increased risk of ear infections, the ears do not metabolize alcohol and are not involved in the physiological processes impacted directly by alcohol intake. In contrast, the brain, liver, and kidneys are significantly affected by alcohol. The brain is directly impacted as alcohol alters neurotransmitter activity, affecting cognition, mood, and motor control. The liver is heavily involved in metabolizing alcohol, and chronic consumption can lead to serious liver damage, such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or cirrhosis. The kidneys’ function can also be affected, as alcohol can disrupt fluid and electrolyte balance, impacting kidney health and function. Thus, the correct identification of the ears as an organ not directly affected by alcohol consumption reflects an understanding of how alcohol interacts with different systems in the body.