Alcoholism is a disease in which one is addicted to and craves alcohol. It is a dependence based on alcohol that a person can not control. People that suffer from alcoholism continually drink, even though they know its causing problems within their life. Studies have shown that around 18 million people in the U.S. abuse alcohol.
Alcoholism is a disease that happens over a period of time. Drinking heavily over this period of time can affect the chemical balances in the brain and trick them in to thinking that a person needs alcohol to be happy. There are many signs of alcoholism, but they vary from person to person. Some symptoms include not being able to control the amount you drink, the loss of interest in hobbies and activities that you would usually enjoy, the strong urge to indulge in drinks, and also developing a very high tolerance for alcohol that makes you have to intake even more to feel the effects. Many people that suffer from alcoholism can not stop their drinking alone, and need to seek help.
Alcohol when used in moderation can lead to confusion, vomiting, dehydration, and nausea; commonly referred to as a hangover. Thus having alcoholism can result to many other risks, such as malnutrition can occur and stomach ulcers can also be developed. One of the main & worst risks that can result from alcoholism is liver disease. A liver disease is developed when the nutrients that are produced in the liver are impaired from the excessive amounts of alcohol, this leads to a build up of fatty tissue in the liver; and can result in Hepatitis C (a viral disease that leads to inflammation in the liver), liver cancer, and also Cirrhosis (a build of liver tissues that turns in to fibroids).
Alcohol poising is also one of the results that can occur from an individual that partakes in alcoholism, especially if its binge drinking. This could result in a coma, which could potentially lead to death if a person can not be brought back to consciousness.
One who can not control their alcohol consumption should see a doctor. Visiting a doctor will aid in determining what steps an individual should take to try and become healthy again. Before one can get help it is most important to admit there is a problem. There are many different steps and actions that can be taken to cure alcoholism. Some include detoxifying the body while taking medications to control the symptoms that can occur while trying to get the toxins out of the body. Others involve counseling and a support group; this helps the psychological aspects of the addiction. Some treatments may include oral or injected medications to help with the alcohol dependence.
Alcoholism is a disease that can be prevented. It is all dependent on the individual and its environment and surroundings. If one feels that they are going through a rough time and need to result to alcohol as a relief help they should seek help immediately.
Sources:
Alcoholism. Www.Mayoclinic.com. 1998-2012 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.
National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. www.livestrong.com. 2012 Demand Media, Inc
Alcoholism. http://www.umm.edu. 1997- 2012 American Accreditation HealthCare Commission.
