Understanding Alcohol Addiction: A Closer Look.
Do I have an alcohol addiction if I only drink occasionally and on weekends? Most of us have asked this question that often lacks an apparent answer. The problem with occasional and weekend alcohol consumption is that it can quietly lead to alcohol addiction before you realize it. Alcohol works by establishing a cycle of intoxication, withdrawal, and cravings. Recognizing the signs of alcohol addiction is critical to seeking necessary alcohol addiction treatment for you or your loved one before the situation gets out of hand.
Am I Addicted to Alcohol?
Understanding alcohol addiction is the first step towards recognizing if you or your loved one is on a path to addiction. Not everyone who drinks is addicted to alcohol and drinking occasionally or on weekends might not signify addiction. However, other factors, such as the frequency of drinking, and loss of control over intake, must be considered before passing the verdict of a potential drinking problem. Early identification of such a problem is a reason enough to seek help before the impacts of prolonged use set in.
The Long-Term Impact of Alcohol Use.
Excessive, frequent, and prolonged alcohol consumption is indicative of alcohol addiction and can lead to severe health issues such as:
- Malnutrition: Mucosal damage prevents nutrient absorption.
- Liver disease: Ranges from fatty liver to irreversible cirrhosis.
- Cancer: Increased risk of various cancers including liver, throat, and breast cancer.
- Heart conditions: Higher risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and stroke.
- Cognitive decline: Memory and learning impairments, increased dementia risk.
- Weakened immune system: Higher susceptibility to illnesses.
- Mental health conditions: Anxiety, depression, and other disorders.
Collectively, these impacts significantly affect an individual’s social life, such as jobs and relationships, leading to adverse consequences, such as conflicts, family separations, and unemployment.
How Alcohol Addiction Develops.
Alcohol stimulates brain pleasure while suppressing negative emotions by affecting three brain sections: the basal ganglia, extended amygdala, and prefrontal cortex.
- Basal Ganglia: Controls reward and motivation, making drinking a pleasurable habit.
- Extended Amygdala: Triggers stress and anxiety during withdrawal.
- Prefrontal Cortex: Governs decision-making and impulse control, leading to obsessive thoughts about drinking.
Alcohol Addiction Withdrawal Symptoms.
Withdrawal symptoms manifest within hours and peak between 24-72 hours after your last drink featuring the following symptoms:
- Mental: Anxiety, nervousness, irritability, depression, nightmares, and confusion.
- Physical: Headaches, nausea, vomiting, sweating, tremors, rapid heart rate, and dehydration.
- Severe: Delirium tremens (DTs), causing agitation, hallucinations, high fever, and seizures.
Signs of Alcohol Addiction.
Alcohol use often escalates and exceeds the planned limits due to its progressive nature and its effects on the brain. You can consider several indicators and recognize the most frequent excuses used to justify the next drink. These indicators may include:
- Drinking more frequently and in higher amounts than intended.
- Obsession with alcohol and anticipating the next drink.
- Difficulty reducing alcohol consumption.
- Neglecting responsibilities and activities.
- Continuing to drink despite adverse effects.
- High tolerance and withdrawal symptoms.
Prevent Progression Into Alcohol Addiction By Getting In Control Of Your Drink With Help From Taylor Recovery In Houston, Texas.
If you or your loved one is experiencing alcohol addiction at any stage, Taylor Recovery Center in Houston, Texas, can help. Our supportive professionals will guide and help you to uncover and deal with the root of your alcohol addiction.