Alcohol Use Disorder Signs & Symptoms
Often called alcoholism, alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic, and very treatable, disease.
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic, and very treatable, disease.
Alcohol Use Disorder Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms and indications of alcohol abuse include:
- Family history of alcohol use disorder (also called alcoholism)
- Frequent intoxication
- Drinking before noon
- Underage drinking and/or binge drinking
- A decline in self-care or hygiene
- Physical harm as a result of drinking (accidents or fights)
- Drinking alone
- The ability to consume a good deal of alcohol without getting intoxicated
- A preoccupation with drinking alcohol and/or cravings
- Suffering from blackouts or memory lapses while drinking
- Using alcohol to alter one’s mood
- Binge drinking (periodic, extreme overindulgence) - consuming five or more standard drinks (male), or four or more drinks (female) in one occasion.
- Hiding alcohol or sneaking drinks
- Drinking prior to events or social gatherings where alcohol will be served
- Job loss or complaints by employers regarding one’s drinking
- Relationship or marital problems as a result of too much drinking
- Complaints from friends, relatives, or co-workers about problem drinking incidents
- Alcohol related arrests: public intoxication, DUI, lewd behavior, altercations
- Behavioral changes while intoxicated: anger, sexual promiscuity, rash acts
- Feeling remorseful or humiliated by drinking-related behavior
- Social rejection or loss of friendship as a result of one’s drinking
- Neglect of other activities
- Drinking and driving or drinking in dangerous situations
- Changes to personality
Identifying Addiction: Know the Signs of Alcohol Use Disorder
While the above indicators are signs of alcohol abuse, a diagnosis of alcohol use disorder necessitates physical dependence on alcohol. The most common physical signs of alcohol addiction are:
- Increased alcohol tolerance: more and more alcohol is needed to feel its effects
- Inability to quit drinking despite many attempts and desire to stop
- Loss of control (one cannot control the amount of alcohol he consumes at any given time)
- Alcohol consumption or other drugs are required to avoid withdrawal symptoms: nausea, shakiness, anxiety, sweating, and, with more severe cases, seizures, delirium (or hallucinations)
- Craving for alcohol that can contribute to relapse if one attempts to abstain
Side Effects of Alcohol Use Disorder
Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) can lead to a wide range of physical, social, and mental health problems. These effects can vary in severity depending on the extent of alcohol misuse. Here's a list of potential side effects associated with AUD:
Physical Side Effects:
1. Liver Damage: Cirrhosis, fatty liver, hepatitis, and other liver diseases due to excessive alcohol consumption.
2. Heart Problems: Increased risk of hypertension, irregular heartbeats, cardiomyopathy, and increased risk of heart disease.
3. Gastrointestinal Issues: Gastritis, ulcers, pancreatitis, and increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.
4. Neurological Impairment: Memory problems, cognitive deficits, and neuropathy due to alcohol's impact on the nervous system.
5. Immune System Suppression: Weakened immune response, making the body more susceptible to infections.
6. Cancer Risk: Increased risk of various cancers including mouth, throat, liver, breast, and colon cancers.
7. Nutritional Deficiencies: Malnutrition due to poor dietary choices and impaired nutrient absorption.
8. Endocrine Disruption: Hormonal imbalances, including disrupted reproductive hormones and increased risk of sexual dysfunction.
9. Risk of Injury: Impaired coordination and judgment leading to accidents, falls, and injuries.
10. Withdrawal Symptoms: Tremors, sweating, anxiety, nausea, and seizures when alcohol consumption is abruptly reduced or stopped.
Mental and Emotional Side Effects:
1. Depression: Increased risk of developing or exacerbating depressive symptoms.
2. Anxiety: Heightened anxiety and panic attacks, especially during withdrawal.
3. Cognitive Impairment: Memory lapses, impaired decision-making, and reduced concentration.
4. Mood Swings: Frequent and severe mood swings, irritability, and emotional instability.
5. Sleep Disorders: Insomnia and disrupted sleep patterns due to alcohol's impact on sleep architecture.
6. Psychosis: Delusions, hallucinations, and impaired perception of reality, especially during severe withdrawal.
Social and Behavioral Side Effects:
1. Relationship Strain: Marital problems, and conflicts with family and friends due to erratic behavior, and neglect.
2. Social Isolation: Withdrawal from social activities and isolation from loved ones.
3. Legal Issues: DUI charges, accidents, and legal consequences related to alcohol-related behaviors.
4. Financial Problems: Excessive spending on alcohol, job loss, and financial instability.
5. Reduced Occupational Functioning: Impaired work performance, absenteeism, and decreased productivity.
6. Risky Behaviors: Engaging in risky sexual behavior, impaired driving, and other dangerous activities.
7. Loss of Interest: Decreased interest in hobbies, activities, and passions.
If You or Someone You Know is Suffering from or at Risk of Substance Use Disorder Caron is Here to Help
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