Alcoholism: Symptoms, Causes, Effects, and Treatments
Dr. Rostislav Ignatov, MD
Chief Medical Officer
Alcoholism, also called alcohol use disorder (AUD), affects millions of people in the U.S. Nearly 29 million people, including teens and adults, struggled with AUD in 2023. Even though so many people are affected, only a small percent ever actually get treatment. Without help, alcohol misuse can cause serious health problems like liver disease, heart issues, and mental health struggles. Getting the right support can make a significant difference in managing alcohol use and improving overall well-being.
What is Considered Alcoholism?
- Excessive Drinking: Regularly drinking more than intended or unable to stop once started.
- Physical Dependence: Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like shaking or sweating when not drinking.
- Tolerance: Needing to drink more over time to feel the same effects.
- Impact on Life: Drinking interferes with work, relationships, and responsibilities.
- Failed Attempts to Cut Back: Trying and failing to stop or reduce drinking.
- Drinking Despite Negative Consequences: Continuing to drink even when it causes health or personal problems.
Alcohol Abuse Vs Alcoholism
Alcohol abuse and alcoholism may seem similar, but they have key differences. Here’s a quick breakdown of each:
Alcohol abuse: Drinking in ways that create issues in your life, like problems with family, work, or social situations, but not yet leading to physical dependence.
Alcoholism (AUD): When drinking becomes a constant need, both physically and mentally. It leads to strong cravings, the need to drink more to feel the effects, and withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop.
What You Don’t Know About Alcohol Can Harm You
Read the content below for what is and isn’t safe with alcohol and how to heal if alcohol has taken over.
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Alcohol Detox & Treatment Centers
(It’s important to consult a treatment center when chronic alcohol use is involved. Withdrawing from alcohol cold-turkey can lead to DTs, seizures, and even be fatal. Medical detox is also way more comfortable than doing it on your own and sets you up for further care so you never have to go through alcohol detox again!).
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