Basic Facts About Alcohol and Alcoholism

Basic Facts About Alcohol and Alcoholism April 23, 2019 buzbuzzer/Getty Images More in Addiction Alcohol Use Binge Drinking Withdrawal and Relapse Children of Alcoholics Drunk Driving Addictive Behaviors Drug Use Nicotine Use Coping and Recovery Alcohol is a dangerous drug. It is toxic to the body and as it is metabolized it changes into a known carcinogen. Not only can excessive alcohol consumption cause many physical and cognitive consequences, but it can also cause a variety of social, economic and legal problems for the drinker. In fact, that is a key symptom of an alcohol problem - if the person continues to drink in spite of all the problems it causes. Unfortunately, alcohol consumption can become much more than a bad habit. Long-term or chronic alcohol abuse can result in severe alcohol abuse disorders, which if left untreated can be fatal. Alcohol Is a Dangerous DrugWhat do some people become alcoholics while others do not? Why do some people suffer serious negative health consequences of alcohol consumption while other drinkers dont? Scientists believe the differences in how the body metabolizes alcohol may be the key. What Is Alcoholism?How much alcohol is too much? Is there a safe level of alcohol consumption? What are the symptoms of an alcohol abuse disorder? What is the difference between a mild, moderate and severe disorder? Alcohol Abuse Screening QuizAnswering these 20 questions will give you an idea if your drinking patterns are safe, risky or harmful. The test is completely confidential and anonymous. Alcohol Problem FAQFrequently asked questions about alcohol problems binge drinking and alcohol dependence. But It Doesnt Act Like a Disease!The difficulty in recognizing alcoholism as a disease is it sure doesnt seem like one. Alcoholic Liver DiseaseAlcoholic liver disease is only one negative health consequence of long-term excessive alcohol consumption, but its a killer. Why is drinking alcohol so damaging to the liver? Some Alcohol Effects Last Long Into SobrietyResearch has found that, even with prolonged sobriety, alcoholics show deficits in visuoperception and frontal executive functioning of the brain. Problem DrinkersMany people who have a problem with alcohol are not alcoholics and in order to quit drinking, they do not necessarily need medical treatment peer group support or a spiritual awakening. Withdrawal SymptomsWhen long-time drinkers or heavy drinkers decide to quit cold turkey they can experience withdrawal symptoms that can range from mild to severe and even life-threatening. Hitting BottomFor those suffering from the disease of alcoholism, it seems to be an almost universal truth that before things can get better they have to get worse -- sometimes a lot worse. What is Alcoholism, Exactly?For many people, the facts about alcoholism are not clear. What is alcoholism, exactly? How does it differ from alcohol abuse? What Is a Dry Drunk?Unfortunately, when many former drinkers go through the grieving process over the loss of their old friend the bottle some never get past the anger stage. The 12 Steps Not for You?If spiritual based approaches to recovery are not for you, there are many other programs and methods available. Neurotransmitters Key to Treating Alcoholics?Researchers believe they have found a cellular mechanism underlying alcohols effects, that when blocked can stop alcohols effect on the brain. Treatment and Rehabilitation CentersIf you are chemically dependent on alcohol, you may need medical assistance to avoid severe withdrawal symptoms. Heres where to find a treatment center near you.