Alcoholism

In medical terms uncontrollable alcoholism is also referred to as “alcohol use disorder”. Hence, when you tell someone to stop drinking alcohol or reduce its amount, it is easier said than done. But in most of the cases, alcoholism is a habit related problem, and if an alcoholic gets enough support or if he or she develops medical conditions that can prove to be fatal if alcohol consumption is not stopped, alcohol consumption can be get done with, or at least reduced.

How do you know that you’re suffering from alcoholism?

You should look for the following signs:

• You drink alone and consuming alcohol is no longer a social activity for you.
• You have a high tolerance for alcohol – many people boast that they don’t get affected even by consuming lots of alcohol, but it means their health has deteriorated.
• You are eating poorly or not eating at all.
• You lose your temper when people talk about your excessive alcohol consumption.
• You cannot focus on your work.
• You’re ignoring personal hygiene.
• You keep on drinking alcohol even when you’re facing social, economic and legal problems.

What are the common causes of alcoholism?

There are several reasons why someone may become alcoholic. There are biological factors, environmental factors, social factors or psychological factors.

Biologically, some people can consume more alcohol and they don’t get easily “drunk”. They mistake it for greater tolerance and hence, don’t try to curb their tendency to consume more alcohol. Gradually, they don’t realize that they have gotten used to consuming more alcohol than their friends, siblings, and colleagues.

In some societies and cultures, it is normal to consume alcohol. In fact, some youngsters are stigmatized for not consuming alcohol. Some people are offended if you don’t join them for a peg or two.

Depressed people tend to consume more alcohol. Alcohol is known to boost mood and trigger a feeling of euphoria and happiness. It dismantles inhibitions. Things that people cannot express otherwise, become easier to express when they are drunk. Many artists, especially in performance arts, begin to consume alcohol because then it becomes easier for them to perform in front of the audience.

Is there a dedicated test for alcohol?

When we talk about an alcohol test, we don’t mean using something like a breathalyzer to know whether a person is drunk or not. A medical -related alcohol test measures the toll your organs have taken due to continuous alcohol consumption. Your liver may be damaged. Your kidneys may be damaged. Your heart may be traumatized. Your nervous system may be out of sync. You may also be having psychological problems. Hence, different tests are needed to know what affect alcohol has had on your overall health. You may decide to go for a liver function test. You can get a kidney function test. You can also get yourself a lipid profile. A basic health checkup gives you a fair idea of at what stage your health is.