Symptoms of Alcoholism
Alcoholism is not just a general term for excessive alcohol consumption, but a medical term as well
It's also known as alcohol dependence, since alcohol consumption can lead to physical and psychological issues.
Alcoholism itself is not just a disease; it can also be considered a social disease; a way of life, or an addiction. It's more of a progressive condition, meaning that over time, the effects of consuming alcohol become more extreme. The body's systems become over-sensitive and the individual develops a number of alcohol-related health problems. At one extreme, an individual's alcohol consumption can result in serious physical ailments like coma and death. At the other extreme, the effects of consumption can lead to more limited symptoms of a disease and the individual can move on with their lives, having never really given up alcohol altogether.
Physical and mental consequences of alcohol use have many different manifestations and effects. While some of these effects are obvious, others may not be so readily apparent; depending on the individual.
The most obvious symptoms of alcoholism include sleep problems, increased or decreased energy levels, nausea and vomiting, irritability, loss of appetite, blurred vision, and memory loss. Most of these are directly linked to physical damage. However, they are not the only symptoms of alcoholism. Other symptoms include social withdrawal, emotional and psychological withdrawal, lack of concentration, anxiety, and depression.
The physical damages of alcohol depend on what level of consumption a person has, but the psychological and social consequences vary greatly. People who have excessive alcohol consumption tend to suffer from: irritability, restlessness, depression, anxiety, heart attacks, seizures, and even suicide. It has been estimated that approximately 4% of the American population have at least one of these symptoms; although, many do not consider them "alcoholic". Many individuals who don't meet the diagnostic criteria for alcoholism do not know that they have alcohol-use disorders.
The mental and emotional symptoms of alcoholism include: irritability, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and other sleep disorders, and the inability to think clearly. These symptoms can make the person extremely uncomfortable and can make living a normal life very difficult. In fact, many people may find it hard to even meet their basic needs, let alone social or work obligations. without experiencing withdrawal symptoms of alcoholism. Once these symptoms begin to set in, however, people may find themselves unable to function normally, often resorting to using alcohol to alcohol and other drug abuse to provide some form of relief.
There are a variety of treatment options for alcohol-use disorder. Medications like anti-anxiety medications and anti-depressants help to control symptoms and improve a patient's quality of life. Psychotherapy can help individuals learn how to identify their triggers and find healthier ways of dealing with social situations. Alcoholism, like any other disease, requires a commitment to a plan of treatment and a commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Alcoholism isn't a disease, but it is a condition that can lead to many different types of ailments if left unchecked.
If you or someone you know has any of these signs and symptoms, see your doctor for a diagnosis and help!
Alcoholism is the most common type of drug and alcohol abuse and dependence and occurs due to several factors such as genetics, biological predisposition, and life style changes. Alcoholism can be treated with individual or group therapy and in some cases, medication. Individuals who have been treated for alcoholism have been able to reduce or completely stop alcohol dependency and alcohol consumption, although there is no known cure.
Alcoholism and drug addiction are very similar and both share several symptoms, including loss of control, being unable to control consumption, and a sense of pleasure without the drug. The biggest difference is the type of drug involved in a person's addiction.
Alcoholism is a lifelong disorder that affects people in many ways, ranging from physical health issues, to relationships, to psychological, to relationships. One of the most serious effects of alcohol-use disorder is suicide. It is estimated that nearly fifty percent of people with alcohol dependence kill themselves each year because of their dependence on alcohol.
Symptoms of alcoholism are quite common, so it is important to consult a doctor if you have any or all of them. The sooner you begin treatment, the better your chances of finding a cure. Treatment centers provide treatment programs that are geared towards providing help to those suffering from alcoholism and other drug addictions.