Alcoholism: definition, symptoms, causes, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is alcoholism (alcohol addiction)?

Alcoholism, also known as alcohol addiction, is a condition characterized by the habit of consuming excessive amounts of alcohol. Addiction occurs when you drink too much and the body becomes dependent and addicted to alcohol. When this happens, alcohol can cause changes in the brain that make a person lose control in his actions. A person can drink excessive alcohol throughout the day or undergo binge drinking, where a person consumes about 4 to 5 glasses of drink in 2 hours. Alcohol addiction can cause significant stress on the body and lead to serious health problems. It is important to seek medical help immediately if you suspect you or a relative has an alcohol abuse problem.

How common is alcoholism (alcoholism)?

Alcoholism is common and can affect men and women of all ages. People with alcohol addiction will continue to drink even though drinking alcohol has negative consequences, such as losing a job. They may know that their drinking habit can affect their life, but it is often not enough to break the habit.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of alcoholism (alcohol addiction)?

Alcohol addiction is sometimes difficult to identify, because drinking alcohol is often seen as a way to enjoy the atmosphere and celebration. Here are some common symptoms that can help you identify alcohol addiction as a serious problem:

• Excess alcohol consumption, increasing the amount or frequency of consumption
• High tolerance to alcohol
• Drinking at inappropriate times (early morning or at work)
• Changes in friendship
• Emotional changes, such as depression and lethargy
• Dependence on alcohol for daily activities
• Avoid contact with the closest people
• Rambling talk
• Poor balance and awkwardness
• Late reflex
• Withdrawal symptoms when you don't drink, such as shaking, nausea and vomiting
• Tremor in the morning after drinking
• Loss of memory after drinking.

There may be signs and symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a particular symptom, consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

You should contact your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

• Significant hangovers that increase during recovery from alcohol use.
• Symptoms of withdrawal when unable to consume alcohol, such as sweating, confusion, hallucinations, insomnia, nausea, trembling, etc.
• Often does not pay attention to personal and professional responsibilities.

If you have any signs or symptoms above or any other questions, please consult your doctor. Everyone's body is different. Always consult a doctor to treat your health condition.

Cause

What causes alcoholism (alcohol addiction)?

Like most mental disorders, alcoholism has no one cause and is not passed down from generation to generation in families. However, alcoholism is the result of a complex combination of genetic, psychological and environmental factors.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for alcoholism (alcoholism)?

There are many risk factors for alcoholism, including:

• Restlessness or depression
• Have parents who drink a lot
• Antisocial behavior
• Have experienced physical or sexual abuse as a child
• Drink at an early age

Generally, a diagnosis of alcoholism does not require further testing. However, your doctor may order blood tests to check liver function. Your liver plays a role in removing toxins from the blood. If you drink too much, your liver will work harder to filter alcohol and other toxins from your bloodstream. This can lead to serious liver disease and other complications.

Medicines & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

How is alcoholism diagnosed (alcohol addiction)?

Your doctor may ask several questions about your drinking habits, including whether you:

• Have missed or lost a job due to drinking habits
• You need more alcohol to feel drunk when you drink
• Have been unconscious due to drinking
• Never tried to stop drinking but it didn't work

How to treat alcoholism (alcohol addiction)?

Overcoming alcoholism is a challenge that requires a lot of support from family and friends. Apart from emotional support, medication therapy can help overcome alcohol addiction. There are many programs that can help overcome alcohol dependence. Typically a program has the following steps:

• Step 1. Detoxify and rid yourself of alcohol to get rid of the alcohol from your body.
• Step 2. Rehabilitation to learn self-control skills and behaviors.
• Step 3. Counseling to discuss emotional issues.
• Step 4. Join a support group to prevent relapse and manage lifestyle changes.
• Step 5. Treatments for physical and mental health problems related to alcoholism.
• Step 6. Medication to control addiction.

Some medications can help treat alcohol addiction by controlling cravings and withdrawal symptoms, such as:

• Naltrexone (Revia®, Vivitrol®). These drugs can reduce alcohol cravings by blocking opioid receptors, which include the euphoric effects of consuming alcohol.
• Acamprosate (Campral®). This drug acts as a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor to reduce withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety and dysphoria. This drug can be used in conjunction with therapy.
• Acamprosate (Campral®). This medicine produces physical discomfort (such as flushing, palpitations, nausea, vomiting and headaches) when a person consumes alcohol. These drugs work by interfering with the breakdown of alcohol, causing acetaldehyde to build up.

Treatment options for alcoholism depend on the severity of your condition. You should discuss with your doctor what treatment options are most appropriate for you.

Home remedies

What are some lifestyle changes or home remedies that can be done to treat alcoholism (alcohol addiction)?

Here are lifestyle and home remedies that can help you overcome alcohol addiction:

• Consider changing your social lifestyle. Tell friends and family that you are giving up drinking. This can provide strong support for your recovery. Avoid friends who just want to drink and party.

• Start healthy habits. While changing bad habits, start doing healthy habits, such as a good sleep routine, regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and healthy ways to deal with stress.
• Do activities that are free from alcohol. Find hobbies that don't involve alcohol, such as painting, cooking, reading books or watching movies.

If you have any questions, consult your doctor for the best solution to your problem.