Alcohol addiction is not always easy to spot. It is defined as a chronic relapsing disorder in which an individual feels compelled to keep on drinking, even when they know it is causing them harm. For the individual, they do not feel in control of their drinking habits.
Why Is Alcohol So Addictive?
Alcohol may be present in many parts of typical adult life, but that does not stop the fact that alcohol is one of the most addictive substances in the world. The reason for this is that it is a depressive drug. After drinking alcohol, individuals feel relief from their feelings, often feeling much happier. However, this can lead to alcohol misuse (such as binge drinking), which can lead to physical dependence and addiction. At this stage, it is very difficult to get your body off alcohol due to the physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms. This can affect anyone, from young adults to people in their later years of life.
The Signs of Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol addiction shows a mixture of physical and behavioral signs, including:
Not Being Able to Limit Alcohol Intake
Strong Cravings for Alcohol
Wanting to Cut Down But Not Feeling Able To
A Lot of Time Spent Drinking
Being Secretive About Drinking
Engaging in Risky Activities After Drinking
Blacking Out from Drinking
Drinking to Combat Stress
Drinking Even After It Causes Issues in Life
Being in Denial About Alcohol Intake
If you show these signs, an addiction treatment center could be the best next step for you.
The Short-Term Dangers of Alcohol Misuse
Having an alcohol addiction is very dangerous both in the short and long term. These are the short-term dangers of alcohol misuse to be aware of.
Risky Behaviors
Falls and Accidents Leading to Injury
Unpleasant Hangover
Alcohol Poisoning
Be aware that alcohol poisoning can be fatal. Signs of alcohol poisoning include confusion, vomiting, blueish skin, irregular breathing, and unconsciousness. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.
The Long-Term Dangers of Alcohol Misuse
The long-term risk of alcohol addiction includes damage to your mental and physical health. Alcohol is particularly hard on the liver, heart, brain, nervous system, and pancreas. It can increase your chances of getting certain kinds of cancers, experiencing mental health disorders, high blood pressure, liver disease, stroke, and digestive problems. The longer a person drinks, and the more they drink when they do, the higher the chances of developing these problems. That’s why getting sober is so important.
Remember that help is available. With a residential treatment center that specializes in alcohol addiction, you can begin your road to recovery.
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
Recovering from alcohol addiction is not easy, which is why seeking help from addiction treatment services in a detox environment with medical support is crucial. Here are some symptoms patients go through when experiencing withdrawals.
Fever
Agitation
Disorientation
Shivers
Rapid Heartrate
Hallucinations
There is no guarantee that you will experience all of these symptoms – the withdrawal process typically looks slightly different for everyone. The most important thing is being in a medical environment with around-the-clock care for your safety.