HOW ALCOHOLISM AFFECTS YOUR HEALTH
Alcoholism is one of the most common medical illnesses seen by physicians. It occurs when someone has a physical dependence on alcohol and a loss of control over its use. People who are alcohol-dependent may continue to use alcohol even though they know that it is harmful to their mental and physical health and can damage their personal relationships.
There are a variety of factors that can contribute to alcohol dependency, including heredity, stress social and environmental factors, and the addictive nature of the alcohol itself. Because its causes are so varied, people from all walks of life are susceptible
Alcoholism can be a very difficult disease to confront. Those who suffer from it may remain in denial about their condition for years. Often, it will be up to a friend or family member to take the initiative in bringing up the subject.
The good news is that there are tools available to help people keep their alcoholism under control, and many have been able to do so.
This brochure will try to answer some of the basic questions you may have about dealing with this challenging condition. It will explain the causes, symptoms, possible treatments, and the recovery process. Be sure to discuss any other questions or concerns you may have with your doctor,
Alcoholism can take many forms, including continuous drinking, occasional drinking, and binge drinking. Many alcoholics reach a stage where they can drink great quantities of alcohol without ever feeling or appearing drunk. It is also common for some people to "medicate" themselves with alcohol when hung over or when suffering from withdrawal.
While there are serious medical risks associated with long-term alcohol abuse, the most typical problems related to alcoholism are usually emotional or psychological. Alcohol dependence can have severe effects on your ability to function at home and at work.
Behavioral symptoms of alcoholism may include trying to hide evidence or drinking, promising to give up drinking while continuing to drink, drinking alone, remaining intoxicated for long periods, alcohol related job problems or repeated absences from work, blackouts, loss of interest in food, violent or angry mood swings, jealousy and paranoia, and repeated instances of drunk driving.
Physical symptoms may include nausea, vomiting and shaking in the morning; chronic cramps or diarrhea; unsteady walking; red eyes, face and palms; abdominal pain; numbness or tingling sensations; and increased medical problems, especially involving the liver and throat.
Your doctor will take a careful medial history of your symptoms and your drinking patterns (how and when a person drinks is very important). A physical exam may be done to look for medical complications of alcohol use, Samples of urine and blood may also be taken for testing.
To reach a diagnosis of alcohol dependence, your doctor may ask you about your history of drug and alcohol use, ability to function socially, work history, family history, suicidal tendencies and previous psychiatric or emotional problems.
For someone who is alcohol-dependent, quitting drinking can be a tremendous challenge. Most people who quit require help to do so. Family, friends and counseling are important sources of emotional support, and very often, family members will be included in the treatment program. Your doctor can also play an important role in helping you quit and recover from alcohol related disorders.
Psychological therapy, social programs and support groups can aid in your recovery as well.
Treatment starts with "detoxification", which is the immediate withdrawal from alcohol. After "detox", most people require inpatient treatment. These programs usually involve about one month of 24/hour supervision by specialists. The success rate after one or two years is more than 50% if families get involved in the program.
If you must continue to work during your recovery, outpatient programs are available. Counseling sessions can be scheduled around your job. These sessions usually need to be supplemented with Alcoholics Anonymous meeting at least once a week.
For those who quit drinking, alcoholism remains a lifelong struggle, because at this time, there is no cure. You may always feel the desire to drink. Recognizing the patterns of behavior that cause you to drink and changing them is key to recovery. Changing your behavior not only helps you to stay sober, it also has a positive effect on those around you, especially children. But if you continue behavior associated with drinking, you can increase the chances that someone in your family will become dependent on alcohol as well.
Many recovering alcoholics continue to seek support for years after they quit. Because certain medical conditions, such as liver or pancreas damage, can be alcohol-related, it is important that your doctor be a part of your recovery. Some other resources and support services you can call on include religious counseling, mental health centers, local or national substance abuse treatment programs, and Alcoholics Anonymous.
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