Arielle Cruz
Alcoholism, or Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), is a common medical condition that affects a person's ability to stop or control their alcohol consumption despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. AUD can lead to clinically significant impairment or distress and is diagnosed based on the presence of certain symptoms within a 12-month period. The condition can range from mild to severe and is characterised by a problematic drinking pattern that interferes with various aspects of an individual's life. AUD can cause physical issues like alcohol cravings and withdrawal symptoms, and it can also lead to changes in the brain, making it challenging for individuals to stop drinking.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Alcohol use disorder (AUD) defined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) | "A problematic pattern of alcohol use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress" |
| Number of symptoms for diagnosis | 2-3 symptoms for mild AUD, 4-5 for moderate, and 6 or more for severe |
| Symptoms | Persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control alcohol use, spending a great deal of time obtaining, using, or recovering from alcohol, craving alcohol, recurrent alcohol use resulting in failure to fulfill major obligations, continued alcohol use despite social or interpersonal problems |
| Withdrawal symptoms | Trouble sleeping, shakiness, restlessness, nausea, sweating, a racing heart, dysphoria, malaise, feeling low, or a seizure |
| Physical issues | Increased risk of stroke, peripheral neuropathy, heart arrhythmias, postural or orthostatic hypotension, diarrhea, erectile dysfunction, high blood pressure, heart damage, heart attacks, endocrine-related issues, thyroid diseases, abnormal cholesterol levels, reproductive dysfunction, stress intolerance, diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease, oral and esophageal cancer, liver damage |
| Behavioral issues | Antisocial behavior, committing crimes, affecting personal relationships, work, and family life, spending large amounts of money on alcohol |
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What You'll Learn
Alcohol withdrawal symptoms
More serious symptoms can develop 12 to 48 hours after the last drink and may include hallucinations, seizures, and delirium tremens (DTs). DTs are a severe form of alcohol withdrawal that can be fatal. They typically occur within 24 to 72 hours after the last drink and can continue for several days, with the most intense symptoms often appearing around four to five days after the last drink.
Symptoms of alcohol withdrawal tend to peak within 24 to 72 hours and can last for several days, with some people experiencing prolonged withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia and mood changes that can last for weeks or even months. It is important to note that the severity and length of alcohol withdrawal vary depending on individual factors, including the usual amount of alcohol consumed and the duration of alcohol use.
Alcohol withdrawal can be a dangerous and potentially life-threatening process, especially for those who have been drinking heavily for a prolonged period of time. It is recommended to seek professional help and medical treatment to safely manage alcohol withdrawal and reduce the risk of relapse. Treatment options may include medication, behavioural therapy, and mutual-support groups.
If you or someone you know is experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention, especially if the symptoms are severe or concerning.
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Craving the next drink
Cravings for alcohol can be intense, especially in early recovery. They can be triggered by internal or external factors. Internal triggers involve memories, thoughts, emotions, or physical sensations that prompt the urge to drink. External triggers refer to environmental cues associated with alcohol, such as places, times, people, and situations. For example, if drinking was a way to cope with a challenging day at work, the craving might be triggered by a similar stressful situation.
It's important to note that not everyone who cuts back on alcohol will experience cravings. However, they are common, especially for those who drink regularly or engage in heavy drinking. Cravings are now included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) as part of the diagnostic criteria for AUD. Experiencing cravings does not necessarily mean one has AUD, but it could be a warning sign.
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol cravings and the urge to drink, it is important to seek professional help. This may include counselling, therapy, or medication. Strategies such as positive distractions and carrying reminders of your reasons for changing your drinking habits can also help manage cravings.
Remember, alcohol withdrawal is a potentially life-threatening process, and it is crucial to seek professional support to ensure safety and increase the chances of a successful recovery.
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Drinking despite health and safety risks
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a medical condition characterised by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. People with this condition cannot stop drinking, even if their alcohol use upends their lives and the lives of those around them. They may drink despite the damage it does to their relationships or plan their life around their next drink.
Drinking alcohol is linked with at least seven types of cancer, including bowel cancer and female breast cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified alcohol as a Group 1 carcinogen—the highest-risk group, which also includes asbestos, radiation, and tobacco. The risk of developing cancer increases substantially the more alcohol is consumed. However, it is important to note that half of all alcohol-attributable cancers in the WHO European Region are caused by "light" and "moderate" alcohol consumption.
Excessive alcohol use can also lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, liver disease, digestive problems, a weaker immune system, and memory problems, including dementia. It can also worsen mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety and increase the risk of self-harm and suicide. Additionally, alcohol misuse can cause issues at school or work and relationship problems with family and friends.
The American Medical Association recommends a two-drink daily limit for men and a one-drink daily limit for women. Heavy drinking is defined as consuming five or more drinks in one day or 15 or more drinks in a week for men and four or more drinks in a day or eight or more drinks in a week for women. Binge drinking is defined as consuming four or more drinks for women and five or more drinks for men during an occasion.
Treatment for alcohol use disorder may include medication and behavioural therapy. Behavioural therapies can help individuals develop skills to avoid and overcome triggers, such as stress, that might lead to drinking. Medications can also help deter drinking during times when individuals may be at greater risk of a return to drinking, such as during a divorce or the death of a family member.
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Negative impact on social and interpersonal relationships
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) or alcoholism can have a profound impact on an individual's social and interpersonal relationships. AUD is characterised by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. The condition can lead to a range of negative consequences that can strain relationships and cause significant harm to the lives of both the affected individual and those around them.
One of the key ways in which AUD negatively impacts relationships is through intimacy problems and a lack of emotional availability. Individuals with AUD may prioritise drinking and going to bars over spending time with loved ones, leading to a lack of stability and closeness in their relationships. This can result in feelings of loneliness and isolation for their partners and family members. Additionally, the constant conflict and neglect associated with AUD can severely impact the children of parents with alcohol addiction. These children may experience negative emotions such as loneliness, depression, guilt, anxiety, and anger issues, as well as an inability to trust others.
AUD can also lead to financial burdens that strain relationships. Individuals with AUD may spend excessive amounts of money on alcohol, leading to financial instability and debt. This can cause stress and conflict within the family, particularly if the addiction results in a neglect of important duties and responsibilities. The financial strain can also lead to a reduction in the family's ability to provide for their children and maintain a stable home environment.
The emotional consequences of AUD can also take a toll on relationships. Loved ones may experience feelings of helplessness, frustration, and sadness as they witness the negative impact of alcohol on their partner or family member. Trust issues are also common, as individuals with AUD may become secretive and dishonest about their drinking habits. This dishonesty can lead to resentment and further strain the relationship.
Furthermore, AUD has been linked to an increased risk of mental health issues and harmful behaviours, including violence. This can result in domestic violence, child neglect, and other forms of abuse within the family. The stress and conflict associated with AUD can also drive a wedge between family members, destroying marriages and damaging relationships between parents and children. In some cases, family members may develop symptoms of codependency, enabling the addiction to continue despite its harmful consequences.
Overall, the negative impact of AUD on social and interpersonal relationships is extensive and far-reaching. It affects not only the individual with the disorder but also their partners, children, extended family, and friends. The complex dynamics and emotional fallout associated with AUD highlight the importance of early intervention, treatment, and support for both the affected individual and their loved ones.
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Increased risk of cancers
Alcohol use disorder (AUD), commonly known as alcoholism, is a medical condition that impairs an individual's ability to stop or control their alcohol consumption despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences. It is considered a brain disorder that can range from mild to severe.
The link between alcohol and cancer can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, alcohol is metabolized into acetaldehyde, a toxic chemical and probable human carcinogen. Acetaldehyde can damage DNA and proteins, increasing the likelihood of cancerous cell growth. Secondly, alcohol consumption generates reactive oxygen species, which can cause oxidative stress and damage DNA, proteins, and lipids in the body through oxidation. Thirdly, alcohol impairs the body's ability to absorb nutrients vital for cancer prevention, such as vitamin A and the vitamin B complex.
Additionally, alcohol use is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer in women, even with small amounts of alcohol consumption. This may be due to the impact of alcohol on raising estrogen levels in the body. Similarly, long-term alcohol use has been associated with a higher risk of liver cancer due to the inflammation and scarring it causes to the organ.
It is important to note that the risk of cancer associated with alcohol consumption is not limited to heavy drinkers or binge drinkers. Even moderate drinking can increase the chances of developing an alcohol-related cancer. For example, among women who consume one drink per day, the risk of developing alcohol-related cancer is higher than those who consume less than one drink per week.
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Frequently asked questions
Alcoholism, also known as Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), is a medical condition characterized by an impaired ability to stop or control alcohol use despite adverse social, occupational, or health consequences.
Symptoms of alcoholism include:
- Craving alcohol or experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking
- Drinking alcohol in hazardous situations
- Continuing to drink despite health or mental conditions that are exacerbated by alcohol
- Giving up important social, work, or recreational activities due to alcohol use
- Increased tolerance for alcohol
- Spending a lot of money on alcohol
The exact causes of alcoholism are not fully understood, but a combination of genetic, environmental, and individual factors is believed to contribute to its development. People with a family history of alcohol use disorder are at an increased risk.
Treatment for alcoholism typically involves medication, behavioural therapy, or mutual-support groups. Evidence-based treatments are available, and studies show that most people are able to reduce their alcohol consumption or stop drinking entirely with the right treatment.
