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Alcoholism

Alcoholism refers to a disease otherwise known as alcohol dependence syndrome. Often times it begins with binge drinking and alcohol abuse, and progresses into alcohol dependence/alcoholism is as follows:

› Binge drinking (or drinking to get drunk), having five or more drinks at one time for men and four or more for women.

› Binge drinking progresses into alcohol abuse when someone’s drinking causes problems and the drinking continues anyway.

› Alcohol abuse becomes alcohol dependence/alcoholism when one begins to experience one or more of the following: cravings for alcohol, a loss of control of his or her drinking, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, or a strong obsession or need to drink despite repeated problems.

How Alcohol Affects the Body

When consumed in large amounts over a prolonged period of time, alcohol can harm virtually every part of the body. Many of the effects are reversible if alcohol consumption is subsequently controlled; other effects are permanent. Extended alcohol abuse can cause blood conditions including several forms of anemia and blood clotting abnormalities. These conditions could result in susceptibility to bleeding and bruising. Prolonged alcohol use can also impair white blood cell function and thus makes the abuser more likely to develop infections. Half the cancers in the esophagus, larynx and mouth are linked to alcohol. Additionally, intense vomiting from excessive drinking can tear the esophagus. Alcohol-induced cirrhosis is a buildup of scar tissue that changes the structure of the liver and blocks blood flow. Alcohol Treatment often times is needed due to the serious and dangerous affects on the body.

Alcohol Withdrawal, Detox, and Alcohol Rehabilitation

The spectrum of alcohol withdrawal symptoms ranges from minor symptoms such as insomnia and tremulousness to severe complications such as withdrawal seizures and delirium tremens. Alcohol abuse withdrawal can be severe and very uncomfortable, but with medical detox and an inpatient Alcohol Rehab & Treatment Center, the withdrawal can safely be treated and the cycle of this intense and devastating addiction can be broken. If you have questions about an Alcohol Treatment Program please call. We are here to help you explore the many options of alcohol treatment.