Most Common Symptoms of Alcohol Dependency
Alcohol Dependence is a condition characterized by the harmful consequences of repeated alcohol use, a pattern of compulsive alcohol use, and (sometimes) physiological dependence on alcohol (i.e., tolerance and/or symptoms of withdrawal). This disorder is only diagnosed when these behaviors become persistent and very disabling or distressing. So what then are the behaviors associated with alcoholism? Read below for the 4 most common ones.
1) A strong craving to drink. The person will have a strong desire to drink which may not go away until satisfied. This means the person may go out of their way to get a drink.
2) Losing the ability to control the amount of alcohol consumed. Most of us know when enough is enough. An alcoholic normally loses this ability, or chooses to ignore it. This can lead to frequent periods of drunkenness, which over time can lead to serious health concerns, such as cirrhosis of the liver, weakening of the immune system, brain damage, fetal damage (in pregnant women), and even an increased risk of some cancers.
3) A dependency on alcohol to function. Frequent abuse of alcohol can eventually lead to dependence. This means the body will not only crave alcohol, but will need it just to function normally. Without it, the body will develop symptoms similar to those of drug addicts undergoing withdrawal symptoms. An alcoholic who is deprived of alcohol can become nauseous, shaky, sweaty, anxious and irritable.
4) A high tolerance to alcohol. As anyone who has drunk regularly can tell you, over time a person will develop a higher tolerance for alcohol, the more they consume. For alcoholics this tolerance is usually far greater than for a normal person. This, along with not knowing their limits, puts an alcoholic at great risk of health problems.
In most cases, an alcoholic must hit “rock bottom” before being able to admit that they have a problem. If you suspect you, or someone you know many be an alcoholic, seek help immediately. There are a number of great organizations out there who can help with information, as well as treatment options. It will be a tough road, but for the sake of your health, it is the right move.
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