“Moderate alcohol consumption can benefit your health. For example, it can reduce your risk of heart disease.”
Too much, however, can increase your risk of chronic health problems such as high blood pressure, and various cancers.Moderate alcohol consumption can benefit your health. For example, it can reduce your risk of heart disease.
Alcohol addiction is a problem as well. In the United States, it affects over 14 million adults. Left untreated, it can lead to liver disease, ulcers, and other issues.
Want to familiarize yourself with the condition? Perhaps you’d like to learn about the signs of alcoholism? If so, you’re on the right page. Keep reading for all that you need to know!
What Is Alcoholism?
Alcoholism, also known as alcohol use disorder, is an addiction to drinking alcohol. It leads to chemical changes in the brain, which makes you want to drink more often, even if it has negative consequences.
Eventually, the pleasurable feelings associated with drinking will go away and the person will drink more to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
Not only is it harmful to the liver, but it can also cause pancreatitis, osteoporosis, and brain damage. On top of that, it can increase your risk of accidents such as car crashes. And here’s an interesting fact—a 3rd DWI offense is considered a third-degree felony in several states.
4 Signs of Alcoholisms That You Need to Know
It’s not always apparent that a person has a drinking problem, especially in the early stages. Here are some warning signs to look out for.
- Mood Swings
Alcoholism can cause unexplained mood swings. For example, a person might become angry or violent, especially when confronted about their drinking.
Not only that, but they may engage in impulsive behavior such as unprotected sex, and drunk driving.
- Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms occur when a heavy drinker stops drinking alcohol. These include nausea, sweating, rapid heartbeat, tremors, headaches, and insomnia.
In severe cases, they may also experience hallucinations or convulsions.
- Excessive Drinking
There’s nothing wrong with enjoying one or two drinks per day. More than five drinks a day, however, and it’s considered to be binge drinking.
In fact, it’s not uncommon for individuals with advanced alcoholism to have over a dozen drinks each day. Going for prolonged sessions of binge drinking can also lead to alcohol poisoning which can be fatal. That’s why it’s important to look out for this sign of alcoholism.
- Lying About Drinking
An alcoholic may go to great lengths to hide from others how much they’re actually drinking. For example, they might only have a few drinks at the bar with friends but will go home and consume more in private.
Some may also sneak away from a social setting to have a drink.
Recognizing the Signs of Alcoholism
And there you have it—four signs of alcoholism. Given the potential consequences, it’s imperative that you seek treatment as soon as possible. The sooner you get help, the greater the chance of lasting sobriety.
Interested in reading more similar posts? If so, check out the rest of our health-section for more!
