Alcoholism
Addictions
ALCOHOLISM
Alcoholism (alcohol dependence) and alcohol abuse are two different forms of the drinking problem. Alcoholism occurs when you show signs of physical addiction to alcohol and continue to drink, despite problems with physical health, mental health, and social, family, or work responsibilities. Alcohol can control a person's life and relationships. Alcohol abuse is when the act of drinking leads to problems, but not physical addiction.
Causes of alcoholism
There is no known cause of alcohol abuse and alcoholism. Research suggests that certain genes may increase the risk of alcoholism, but it is not known which ones or how they work. The amount of alcohol one drinks can influence the likelihood of becoming dependent. Those at risk for alcoholism include: Men who have 15 or more drinks a week Women who have 12 or more drinks a week Anyone who has five or more drinks per occasion at least once a week A drink is defined as a bottle of beer (340 ml), a glass of wine (140 ml) or a 40 ml drink of liquor. You are at greater risk of alcohol abuse and dependence if you have a parent with alcoholism. You may also be more likely to abuse alcohol or become dependent if: You are a young adult under peer pressure You have depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders or schizophrenia You have easy access to alcohol You have low self-esteem You have problems with interpersonal relationships Lead a stressful lifestyle Live in a culture where alcohol use is more common and accepted.
Symptoms of alcoholism
People who suffer from alcoholism or alcohol abuse frequently: They continue to drink, their health, work or family are still affected. They drink alone. They become violent when they drink. They become hostile when asked about the drink. No are able to control drinking: are unable to stop or reduce alcohol consumption make excuses to drink miss work or school or have decreased performance due to drinking stop taking part in activities due to alcohol They need to consume alcohol most days to get through the day They neglect to eat or do not eat well They do not care or ignore how they are dressed or if they are clean They try to hide alcohol consumption They tremble in the morning or after periods without drinking a drink.
Signs of alcohol dependence include: Memory lapses (blackouts) after binge drinking An increasing need for more and more alcohol to get intoxicated Alcohol withdrawal symptoms when you haven't had a drink in a while Related illnesses alcohol, such as alcoholic liver disease.
Treatment of alcoholism
Quitting alcohol completely is the ideal goal of treatment. This is called abstinence. A strong social network and family support are important to achieve this. Stopping completely and avoiding alcohol is difficult for many alcoholics. There will be times when it will be difficult. Your aspiration should be to avoid drinking for as long as possible. Some people who drink excessively may simply be able to cut down on the amount they drink. This is called drinking in moderation. If this method doesn't work, you should try to stop drinking completely.
Long term recovery
Recovery or support programs can help you stop drinking completely. These programs generally offer: Counseling and therapy to address alcoholism and its effects and how to control your thoughts and behaviors Mental health support Medical care Depression or other anxiety or mood disorders can develop once you are no longer drinking alcohol and must be treated promptly. It is important that the patient has a life situation that supports his need to avoid alcohol. Some programs offer lodging options for people with alcohol or alcohol abuse problems.
Possible complications of alcoholism
Alcoholism and alcohol abuse can increase the risk of many health problems, such as: Bleeding in the digestive tract Damage to neurons Brain disorder called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome Cancer of the esophagus, liver, colon and other areas Changes in the menstrual cycle ( period) Delirium tremens (DT) Dementia and memory loss Depression and suicide Erectile dysfunction Heart damage High blood pressure Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis) Liver disease, including cirrhosis Neurological damage Malnutrition Sleep problems (insomnia) Alcohol consumption also increases the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and violence. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can lead to serious birth defects. Like fetal alcohol syndrome.
