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What is Considered Alcoholism?

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Diagnosing Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcoholism, or alcohol use disorder (AUD), is known as a condition identified by the inability to control or stop drinking despite adverse physical, psychological, social, or legal consequences. It ranges from mild to severe, and the medical field recognizes it as a medical condition requiring treatment. Here is more on the subject.

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Stages of Alcoholism

Early Stage:

  • Occasional binge drinking or drinking to cope with emotions.
  • Little outward signs but increasing reliance on alcohol.

Middle Stage:

  • Tolerance increases; drinking becomes a priority.
  • Noticeable neglect of responsibilities and relationships.
  • Physical and psychological dependence begins to develop.

Late Stage:

  • Inability to function without alcohol.
  • Risk of life-threatening withdrawal symptoms like delirium tremens (DTs).
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What is Considered Alcoholism?

Diagnosing Alcohol Use Disorder

There are several measurements to diagnose AUD. A person must meet at least two of 11 criteria within a 12-month period, including but not limited to:

  • Drinking despite consequences (which include problems such as health, family, friends, work, lacking in your responsibilities and placing yourself in unsafe situations.)
  • Craving alcohol.
  • Trying to stop drinking but cannot.
  • Devoting significant time to drinking or recovering from its effects.
  • Wanting a drink so badly that it becomes the only thought.
  • Giving up or cutting back on activities important or interesting to you.
  • Needing to drink much more to get the effect you want. Your usual number of drinks has much less impact than before.
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like sleep disturbance, shaking, restlessness, nausea, sweating, a racing heart, or seizures.

Healthcare providers categorize the severity as follows:

  • A mild alcohol use disorder meets 2–3 criteria.
  • A moderate one is 4–5 criteria.
  • Severe is when one meets 6+ criteria or more.

REF: National Abuse and Alcoholism Institute on Alcohol

Damaging Physical Effects of Alcohol

Alcohol affects physical health in many ways. Impacts depend on the amount, frequency, and duration of consumption. A person who occasionally and moderately drinks may not have significant adverse effects, but heavy or long-term alcohol use can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening health issues. Here is an overview of its impact.

Short-term use can Produce these Physical Effects:

  • Slows brain function, leading to poor coordination, impaired judgment, and delayed reaction times.
  • Causes slurred speech and temporary memory lapses (blackouts).
  • It increases heart rate and can cause irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia).
  • It can lead to dehydration and a drop in blood pressure.
  • Irritates the stomach lining, potentially causing nausea, vomiting, or acid reflux.
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  • It can lead to acute gastritis (stomach inflammation).
  • Although alcohol may initially promote sleepiness, it disrupts the sleep cycle, reducing the quality and therapeutic value of sleep.
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Long-Term Use:

  • Fat build-up in liver cells, impairing its function. (Steatosis)
  • Permanent scarring of liver tissue, often irreversible and can be life-threatening. (Cirrhosis)
  • Increased risk of high blood pressure. (hypertension)
  • Weakens the heart muscle, which can lead to heart failure. (Alcohol-Induced Cardiomyopathy)
  • Higher likelihood of strokes and irregular heartbeats. (atrial fibrillation, i.e. AFib)
  • It increases the chance of developing pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), which can potentially cause digestive problems and severe pain. It also disrupts the absorption of essential nutrients, leading to malnutrition.
  • It is linked to esophageal and stomach ulcers.
  • It weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections like pneumonia and tuberculosis.
  • A Group 1 carcinogen classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.
  • Chronic alcohol use can also cause neuropathy (nerve damage), leading to pain, tingling, or weakness in the extremities.
  • It can cause hormonal imbalances, reduced fertility, and sexual dysfunction.
  • In pregnancy, alcohol use can result in fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), causing lifelong developmental problems for the child.

Damaging Effects of Alcohol on Mental Health

Alcohol can significantly impact mental health, both in the short and long term. Its effects vary depending on certain factors. What amount the person consumes, at what frequency, mental health history, and genetic predisposition. While some people may initially use alcohol as a way to relax or cope, its long-term impact on emotional well-being is often harmful.

Short-Term Effects on Mental Health

  • It is a depressant that slows brain activity, often leading to temporary relaxation or euphoria.
  • It can also cause irritability, mood swings, or aggression in some individuals.
  • Reduced inhibitions can lead to risky behaviours, impulsive decisions, or actions a person might regret later.
  • While alcohol might initially relieve stress or anxiety, it often heightens these feelings as it wears off (known as alcohol-induced anxiety).
  • It causes short-term memory loss or blackouts, particularly with excessive drinking.
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Long-Term Effects

  • Depression
  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Increased Risk of Suicide
  • Alcoholism (Alcohol Use Disorder)
  • Cognitive Impairments
  • Psychosis
  • Sleep Disorders

Reducing or Quitting Alcohol Produces Positive Outcomes

It will:

  • Improved emotional stability.
  • Reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.
  • Enhanced cognitive function and memory.
  • Better sleep quality and energy levels.
  • Greater sense of control and self-esteem.

When Should One Seek Help?

If a person experiences any signs of alcoholism mentioned above, seeking professional help is important. In most cases, alcohol abuse does not get better; it only worsens. Recovery is absolutely possible, and many resources are available. The professionals at Addiction Referral and Consultation Services can help find the right alcohol treatment program.

Alcohol consumption has a profound impact on physical health and negative effects on mental health, especially with long-term or heavy use. Although alcohol may temporarily relieve stress or negative emotions, it ultimately worsens underlying issues over time. Seeking therapy, joining support groups, or entering a drug rehabilitation program can greatly enhance your overall quality of life.

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