The Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism
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These are signs of a dangerous condition that could be fatal if not treated properly. Alcohol use disorder is a progressive disease, so the more you drink and the more often you drink, the more you and others will notice changes in your mental and physical health. Physical signs of alcoholism can result from the conditions and diseases caused by excess alcohol in your body. For many people, alcohol has a strong effect but when consumed in a moderate amount, it is not unhealthy or dangerous.
From people in active recovery to advocates who have lost loved ones to the devastating disease of addiction, our community understands the struggle and provides guidance born of personal experience. You will also find information on spotting the signs and symptoms of substance use and hotlines for immediate assistance. Whether the problem is alcoholic cancer, drunk physical signs of alcoholism driving, Hepatic Encephalopathy, or something else, alcohol presents many short-term and long-term health issues that can lead to deadly consequences. When consumed in large amounts, alcohol acts as a depressant – slowing brain activity and even “turning off” critical sections of the brain. Decision making and self-control occurs in the cerebral cortex of the brain .
What causes alcohol use disorder?
Consuming alcohol despite awareness of an underlying health condition – such as heart disease or liver cirrhosis – that the use of alcohol will exacerbate. People who drink heavily over a long period of time are also more likely to develop pneumonia or tuberculosis than the general population. The World Health Organization links about 8.1 percent of all tuberculosis cases worldwide to alcohol consumption. The connection between alcohol consumption and your digestive system might not seem immediately clear.
After detox, it’s highly recommended to seek treatment for alcohol addiction. This will help identify and treat underlying reasons for the addiction. Many people turn to alcohol to cope with mental health conditions like depression or anxiety.
How can I prevent alcohol use disorder?
We deliver whole-person, comprehensive care and are passionate about transforming the quality, delivery, and accessibility of alcohol addiction & mental health treatment. Our actions are rooted in respect for each member’s values, culture, and life experiences, and our commitment to their wellbeing is unwavering and without judgement. Needing a drink first thing in the morning — or even in the middle of the night — to stave off nausea or stop the shakes are signs of dependence and withdrawal. Typical alcohol withdrawal symptoms include sweating, shaking, nausea, anxiety and insomnia.
What are the physical signs that someone has been drinking?
- Bumping into or knocking over furniture or people.
- Falling down or cannot stand.
- Difficulty walking straight.
- Staggering or stumbling.
- Swaying uncontrollably.
- Unsteady on feet.