Theo Nash
Alcohol use disorder (AUD), or alcoholism, is a common medical condition that can have a range of physical and psychological symptoms. People with AUD are unable to stop drinking, even when it negatively impacts their lives and the lives of those around them. The symptoms of AUD vary from person to person and can be mild, moderate, or severe. Physical symptoms of alcoholism include visible effects on the skin, such as redness and dryness, as well as a yellow skin tone due to jaundice, which indicates liver problems. Alcoholism can also cause weight fluctuations due to changes in appetite and cravings for high-fat foods. It can also lead to alcoholic neuropathy, peripheral neuropathy, heart problems, gastrointestinal issues, and a weakened immune system. Psychological symptoms include changes in mood and behaviour, such as increased anxiety, depression, and an inability to think clearly. AUD can also lead to social withdrawal, impaired judgement, and unsafe behaviour.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Physical symptoms | Redness in the face, unhealthy-looking skin, weight fluctuations, exhaustion, dehydration, loss of appetite, smell of alcohol, high tolerance for alcohol, withdrawal symptoms (trouble sleeping, shakiness, restlessness, nausea, sweating, a racing heart, seizures, hallucinations), impaired immune system, skin sores, jaundice, endocrine system disturbances, thyroid diseases, abnormal cholesterol levels, reproductive dysfunction, stress intolerance, diabetes, 'leaky gut', colorectal cancer, gastroesophageal reflux disease, esophageal cancer, oral cavity cancer, heart damage, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, increased heart rate, peripheral neuropathy, numbness in the arms and legs, painful burning in the feet, postural or orthostatic hypotension, diarrhoea, erectile dysfunction |
| Psychological symptoms | Craving alcohol, drinking despite the damage to relationships, drinking more than intended, spending a lot of time drinking or recovering from hangovers, repeatedly trying to reduce drinking, failing to meet work or family obligations, loss of interest in previously important aspects of life, isolation from loved ones, inability to function without alcohol, changes in mood and behaviour, difficulty thinking clearly, lack of coordination, increased risk of stroke |
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What You'll Learn
- Alcohol withdrawal symptoms: anxiety, confusion, tremors, nausea, sleeplessness
- Alcohol's impact on skin: redness, dryness, repeated infections, jaundice
- Alcohol and appetite: loss of hunger, craving high-fat foods, weight gain
- Alcohol tolerance: needing more to get same effects, dangerous withdrawal
- Alcohol's psychological impact: thoughts and behaviours focused on obtaining and consuming alcohol
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms: anxiety, confusion, tremors, nausea, sleeplessness
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a common condition, with about 29% of US adults expected to meet the criteria for it at some point in their lifetime. The condition is diagnosed by a healthcare provider who performs a physical examination and uses the criteria laid out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
Delirium tremens (DTs), also known as alcohol withdrawal delirium (AWD), is the most severe form of alcohol withdrawal. It is a medical emergency with a high mortality rate, so early recognition and treatment are essential. The main symptoms of DTs include:
- Tremors or shakes, most apparent in the hands
- Confusion, disorientation, and hallucinations
- Agitation or anxiety, which can lead to combative or aggressive behaviour
- Psychosis symptoms, such as paranoia
These symptoms can be managed and treated with medication, such as sedatives, that reduce central nervous system (CNS) activity.
In addition to DTs, other alcohol withdrawal symptoms include nausea and sleeplessness. Nausea can be a symptom of alcohol withdrawal as the body readjusts to the absence of alcohol. Sleeplessness, or insomnia, can also occur during alcohol withdrawal due to the body's disrupted sleep patterns and the absence of alcohol's sedative effects.
It is important to note that alcohol withdrawal can be dangerous and should be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Treatment for alcohol use disorder is available and typically involves behavioural treatment, such as counselling, to address the underlying causes and triggers for excessive drinking.
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Alcohol's impact on skin: redness, dryness, repeated infections, jaundice
Alcohol can have a detrimental impact on the skin, causing redness, dryness, repeated infections, and jaundice.
Firstly, alcohol can cause facial redness or flushing, particularly in people of East Asian descent. This is due to an inactive genetic variant that affects the processing of alcohol, leading to a buildup of acetaldehyde in the body. The acetaldehyde causes a histamine response, resulting in dilation of the facial blood vessels and subsequent skin discolouration. While this flush may not be dangerous in itself, it indicates that the body is reaching toxic levels of acetaldehyde and is a risk factor for high blood pressure.
Secondly, alcohol consumption can lead to dry skin. Alcohol is a diuretic, causing increased urine production and subsequent dehydration. This dehydration can affect the skin, making it dry and lacking moisture.
Additionally, alcohol weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of skin infections. Alcohol can also worsen existing skin conditions, such as psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, and eczema. A 2023 review found that alcohol increases the risk of developing psoriasis, an inflammatory skin condition.
Finally, long-term heavy drinking can cause liver damage, resulting in jaundice, a yellowing of the skin and eyes. This is due to alcoholic liver disease, which impairs the liver's ability to filter toxins from the blood, leading to a buildup of bilirubin, a yellow pigment.
The impact of alcohol on the skin can be mitigated by drinking in moderation, ensuring adequate hydration, and seeking medical advice if concerned.
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Alcohol and appetite: loss of hunger, craving high-fat foods, weight gain
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) can manifest in various physical and psychological symptoms, including a loss of appetite, cravings for high-fat foods, and subsequent weight gain.
Alcohol is associated with both an increase and a loss of appetite. Consuming one or two drinks before a meal can make you feel hungrier, an effect that has been observed in multiple studies. However, heavy drinking suppresses appetite by altering the body's hunger signals. People with AUD tend to eat poorly and suffer from nutritional deficiencies, as they prioritise alcohol over food. This shift in priorities reinforces inadequate food intake, leading to serious health consequences.
The association between alcohol and high-calorie, high-fat foods is well-documented. "Drunchies" or "drunken munchies" refer to the intense cravings for unhealthy, calorie-dense foods after drinking alcohol. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon. Firstly, alcohol lowers inhibitions and impairs judgment, making it easier to indulge in impulsive food choices. Secondly, alcohol consumption is deeply rooted in social and cultural traditions, and drinking is often accompanied by eating, especially less healthy options. The belief that alcohol enhances appetite is so strong that it can influence caloric intake even when participants are unaware they are consuming alcohol.
Additionally, alcohol affects glucose metabolism, encouraging excessive consumption of high-fat, high-sodium, and high-sugar foods. On a genetic level, we may be hardwired to seek out calorie-rich foods, as they provided energy and kept our ancestors full for longer. Alcohol also increases the desire for salty foods, as it is dehydrating, and consuming salty foods further exacerbates dehydration.
The combination of increased appetite, cravings for high-calorie foods, and poor nutritional choices can lead to weight gain. The high caloric content of alcohol itself also contributes to weight gain, as it provides 7 kcal of energy per gram, more than carbohydrates or protein.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use disorder, seeking professional help is essential. Treatment options include behavioural therapy, inpatient medical treatment, and residential rehabilitation.
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Alcohol tolerance: needing more to get same effects, dangerous withdrawal
Alcoholism, or alcohol addiction, is a chronic disease characterised by an inability to control or stop drinking despite negative consequences. Those with alcoholism may develop a tolerance to alcohol, requiring them to consume greater quantities to achieve the desired effect. This tolerance develops as the brain adapts to the presence of alcohol, leading to dependence and, eventually, addiction.
As the body adapts to the presence of alcohol, the sudden cessation of drinking can lead to a range of uncomfortable and dangerous withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can be both physical and psychological in nature and may include tremors, sweating, nausea, headaches, anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. In some cases, individuals may experience hallucinations, seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there.
The severity of withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on the level of alcohol consumption and the extent of dependence. Mild alcohol use disorder is characterised by experiencing two to three withdrawal symptoms, while moderate and severe disorders are indicated by four to five and six or more symptoms, respectively. It is important to note that attempting to quit alcohol cold turkey without medical supervision can be dangerous due to the potentially severe withdrawal symptoms.
Withdrawal symptoms can be managed through medical intervention and professional support. Treatment options may include inpatient medical treatment, residential rehabilitation, and behavioural therapy, which focuses on counselling to change drinking behaviour. Early intervention is crucial in addressing alcoholism and helping individuals reclaim their lives from the grip of this disease.
The physical and psychological toll of alcoholism can be severe and may include isolation from loved ones, loss of interest in previously important aspects of life, and an inability to function without alcohol. Alcoholism affects not only the individual but also their loved ones and society as a whole, underscoring the importance of recognising the signs and seeking appropriate treatment.
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Alcohol's psychological impact: thoughts and behaviours focused on obtaining and consuming alcohol
Alcohol use disorder can significantly impact an individual's life, with thoughts and behaviours becoming fixated on obtaining and consuming alcohol. This preoccupation can lead to a range of psychological symptoms and behaviours indicative of alcohol use disorder.
One of the most prominent psychological impacts of alcoholism is the development of a strong craving for alcoholic beverages. This craving can be intense and persistent, leading individuals to continue consuming alcohol despite negative consequences in their personal lives, such as damage to relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. The compulsion to drink may cause individuals to neglect their personal hygiene and grooming habits, as their focus shifts primarily to alcohol consumption.
Alcohol use disorder can also impair an individual's ability to control their drinking behaviour. They may intend to drink a certain amount or for a specific duration but end up consuming more or drinking for longer than intended. This loss of control can further strain relationships and negatively impact various aspects of their lives. The disorder may also lead to a preoccupation with obtaining alcohol and recovering from its effects, such as hangovers, causing individuals to spend a significant amount of time and effort on these activities.
Repeated attempts to reduce alcohol consumption often characterise alcohol use disorder. Individuals may recognise the negative impact of their drinking and make efforts to cut down, only to find themselves unable to do so successfully. This can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and a sense of failure, further exacerbating the psychological impact of the disorder. The inability to control alcohol intake can also result in repeated failure to meet work or family obligations, as drinking takes precedence over other responsibilities.
Alcohol use disorder can also cause psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression. The kindling effect, observed in individuals with alcohol use disorder, can lead to more severe anxiety during withdrawal. Additionally, as alcohol interferes with the brain's communication pathways, it can disrupt mood and behaviour, making it challenging to think clearly and maintain coordination. Social skills may also be significantly impaired, affecting the ability to perceive facial emotions, understand humour, and interpret prosody, which refers to the suprasegmental features of speech that reflect a speaker's emotional state.
The psychological impact of alcoholism can be profound, with thoughts and behaviours becoming centred around alcohol acquisition and consumption. This preoccupation can lead to cravings, impaired control, unsuccessful attempts to reduce intake, and various psychological symptoms. The disorder can disrupt an individual's life, affecting their relationships, work, and overall psychological well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
Physical symptoms of alcoholism include:
- Redness in the face
- Dry, wrinkled, puffy, or generally unhealthy-looking skin
- Weight gain or loss
- Nerve damage, which can lead to a tingling sensation in the hands and feet
- Increased risk of infections and skin sores
- Jaundice, which can lead to a yellow skin tone
- Withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, sweating, trembling, trouble sleeping, nausea, or vomiting
Alcoholism can have a range of psychological symptoms, including:
- Craving alcohol
- Continuing to drink despite negative consequences
- Drinking more or for longer than intended
- Spending excessive time obtaining, drinking, or recovering from alcohol
- Failing to meet obligations due to drinking
- Giving up important activities because of alcohol
- Increased risk of depression and suicide
- Increased risk of unsafe sexual behaviour
Alcoholism can have serious health consequences, including:
- Liver disease
- Heart disease
- Brain damage
- Stroke
- High blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
- Gastrointestinal issues, such as a "leaky gut" and gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Weakened immune system
- Increased risk of certain cancers, such as colorectal, oesophageal, and oral cavity cancer
