Alcoholism is a serious disease that can manifest itself in many ways. The exact cause for why some become addicted to alcohol and why others do not is unknown but it is a disease that cuts across all lines. Anyone at any age of any race, gender or social class can become addicted. One of the serious dangers is that an alcoholic can go for years without drinking a drop and then begin drinking again without the ability to stop. If you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself or others please contact a medical professional/counselor.
Tolerance
One obvious medical symptom to alcoholism is a significantly increased tolerance to alcohol. An alcoholic can drink large amounts of alcohol without anyone else knowing they are intoxicated. This is due to your body's chemical balance becoming increasingly used to alcohol.
Mental Changes and Memory Problems
An alcoholic also undergoes mental changes, which can include paranoia, irrational fears, and lost interest in activities that the alcoholic previously enjoyed. Alcoholics have trouble remembering and can cease to recall entire evenings of drinking. They can also begin to exhibit signs of confusion. This is due to alcohol affecting the brain.
Depression
Depression can often become an issue with alcoholics. Alcohol tends to make the usual feelings of depression worse after the high wears off and can also cause an onset of depression.
Ongoing Pain and Sickness
Vomiting, nausea and abdominal pain can occur fairly consistently for alcoholics. These can also help contribute to eating disorders.
Heart Problems
Many long term problems can arise due to alcoholism including heart disease, high blood pressure and blood clotting. These problems, and others, lead to lower life expectancy among alcoholics.
Liver Problems
One common problem that results from alcoholism is liver inflammation, called alcohol hepatitis. This hepatitis can then turn into cirrhosis of the liver, which over time can lead to liver failure.
Other Long Term Problems
Sleeping disorders, pancreatic disease, a weakened immune system, and sexual dysfunction are all problems that can affect alcoholics.
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