Warning Signs Of Alcoholism (2023)

What Are The Warning Signs Of Alcoholism?

There are various warning signs to help detect potential alcohol abuse. While many signs are recognizable, others may be more difficult to identify. Also, the severity of alcohol abuse may play a role in the warning signs a person exhibits. For example, some people try to cover their alcohol abuse by drinking in private and isolating themselves from others. This makes it challenging for family members or friends to intervene and help their loved one.

Mild alcohol abuse can be easily overlooked. However, what may appear as a minor issue can turn dangerous over time. These early warning signs should not be ignored. Seeking treatment sooner rather than later will allow you to get back to the things you enjoy most in life.

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Common Symptoms Of Alcohol Abuse

If left untreated, alcohol abuse can spiral out of control quickly. When alcohol abuse begins to negatively impact a person’s life and causes harm, it is diagnosed as alcohol use disorder (AUD). Recognizing the warning signsof alcohol abuse and getting proper treatment can make a significant difference in someone’s recovery process.

While there is no exact formula to determining whether or not someone is an alcoholic, symptoms often co-occur. One symptom may snowball into another, fueling additional problems down the road.

Some of the most common symptoms of alcohol abuse are:

  • Experiencing temporary blackouts or short-term memory loss
  • Exhibiting signs of irritability and extreme mood swings
  • Making excuses for drinking such as to relax, deal with stress or feel normal
  • Choosing drinking over other responsibilities and obligations
  • Becoming isolated and distant from friends and family members
  • Drinking alone or in secrecy
  • Feeling hungover when not drinking
  • Changing appearance and group of acquaintances you hang out with

No matter how minor a drinking problem may seem, alcohol abuse symptoms should not be ignored. If you or a loved one is struggling with alcoholism, we’re here to help. Call a treatment provider to find alcohol treatment facilities nearby.

Recognizing Alcoholism

There are several screening tools that help with determining whether someone has alcoholism. One tool is known as CAGE – a questionnaire that measures the severity of a drinking problem. If you answer “yes” to two or more CAGE questions, you should seek professional medical assistance.

The four CAGE screening questions are:

(Video) The warning signs of alcohol abuse disorder

  1. Have you ever felt you should cut down on your drinking?
  2. Have people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?
  3. Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your drinking?
  4. Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or get over a hangover?

Oftentimes, a medical professional may also ask you questions from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) to properly diagnose alcohol abuse. Answers to these questions should be based on the past year of alcohol use. Questions include:

  • Have you continued to drink even though it was making you feel depressed or anxious or adding to another health problem?
  • Have there been situations where you ended up drinking much more than you intended?
  • Have you lost interest in other activities and hobbies since you started drinking?
  • Have you experienced symptoms associated with an alcohol withdrawal?
  • Have you felt an urge or craving to consume alcohol?
  • Have you gotten into situations while drinking that increased your chances of harming yourself or others (i.e., drinking and driving)?
  • Have you been in trouble with the law due to alcohol-related problems?

The CAGE is a brief questionnaire that you can take to help determine if you have a problem with alcohol. Any negative consequences in just one area of your life, regardless of how much or how often you drink, are cause for concern and an indication that you need the help of a professional.

The Dangers Of Alcoholism

Alcohol abuse can lead to an array of issues, affecting both your personal and professional life. Prolonged drinking puts you at risk for developing serious health complications and can cause other potentially life-threatening consequences.

Denial is one of the main reasons why millions of people do not receive treatment for alcoholism. Some individuals will try to rationalize their drinking behaviors. For instance, you may blame other people or certain circumstances for your drinking. Rather than acknowledge the problems you’ve experienced from alcohol, you become defensive when someone mentions your excessive drinking pattern. By refusing to recognize the negative consequences of alcohol, you’re preventing yourself from living a healthy, sober life.

It’s time to stop making excuses for your drinking and get the help you deserve. Learn about alcoholism support options and find otherresources tostart on your recovery plan today.

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Adolescent Alcohol Abuse

In the last several decades, a growing number of teens have started abusing alcohol. Because adolescents’ brains are still developing, teenage drinking behaviors vary greatly compared to adult patterns.

Many adolescents who participate in underage drinkingare unaware of the long-lasting complications that can transpire from alcohol use. Teens may turn to alcohol for various reasons including peer pressure, wanting to experiment or have fun. There are also behavioral, physical and environmental factors that may play a role in the risk of adolescent alcohol abuse.

Adolescents start drinking for different reasons. Some factors which motivate teenage alcohol abuse involve:

Escaping reality

Just like adults, teens experience stressful situations. Rather than taking part in a hobby, some adolescents try alcohol. It allows them to unwind from challenges that may arise at school, or with family and friends. Drinking can offer teens a sense of happiness, so they continue feeding the habit.

(Video) 4 Warning Signs of Alcoholism

Experimenting

With alcohol advertisements plastered in the media, many teens think drinking is acceptable. Some teens have the mindset that they’ll gain more friends by drinking. Unfortunately, experimenting with alcohol rarely stops after one occasion – it’s usually a snowball effect that becomes unmanageable.

Fitting In

During the teenage years, some adolescents lack confidence and long to fit in with their peers. They’ll do just about anything to be accepted – even if that means drinking alcohol. Drinking is seen as an outlet to reduce social jitters and demonstrate confidence among their peers.

The frontal area of our brain, which is involved in (functions such as) executive functioning and planning … that is not as developed in teens, and alcohol affects that. Kids are already more impulsive, less patient … and alcohol affects that.

Treating Alcoholism

Overcoming alcoholism should be completed under the care of medical professionals in a specialized treatment facility. Patients who attempt to self-treat may cause more harm than good. For instance, the detox phase can entail extremely uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms which are best treated in a rehab program.

Participating in a recovery program with the help of a rehab specialist will give you the greatest chance for long-term sobriety. Treatment providers guide you through every step of the recovery process and help you set achievable sobriety goals. After rehab, your specialist will put you in touch with alcohol abusecounselors and support groups, like Alcoholics Anonymous and Al-Anon. This will ensure you maintain your sobriety and allow you to meet other peers who have overcome alcohol abuse.

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Alcohol Use Disorder Statistics

In 2014, roughly 16.3 million adults in the U.S. had an alcohol use disorder (AUD). Of those with an AUD, only 8.9% received treatment. Teenage alcohol abuse rates are climbing in the U.S. An estimated 855,000 adolescents – ages 12 to 17 – had AUD in 2012. The number of adults seeking treatment from a specialized alcohol facility has remained consistent in recent years – around 1.2%.

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Your Time Is Now

It’s time to take back control of your life. If you’re ready to live a healthy, sober lifestyle, help is available.

Talk with a treatment provider today to find out more about the decisions you can make to better your future.

FAQs

What are the warning signs of an alcohol use disorder? ›

These may include inappropriate behavior, unstable moods, poor judgment, slurred speech, problems with attention or memory, and poor coordination. You can also have periods called "blackouts," where you don't remember events. Very high blood alcohol levels can lead to coma, permanent brain damage or even death.

What are three symptoms of excessive alcoholism? ›

High blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and digestive problems. Cancer of the breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, voice box, liver, colon, and rectum. Weakening of the immune system, increasing the chances of getting sick. Learning and memory problems, including dementia and poor school performance.

What are signs that you are drinking too much alcohol? ›

These are some signs your body may be telling you to take your imbibing down a notch.
  • Changes in your skin. ...
  • Easy bruising. ...
  • Weight gain. ...
  • Loss of appetite and weight loss. ...
  • Tingling or a sensation of numbness. ...
  • Heartburn. ...
  • Stomach issues. ...
  • Nausea and vomiting.
Aug 22, 2022

What are 5 symptoms of an alcoholic? ›

Some of the most common physical, psychological, and behavioral signs and symptoms of alcohol misuse are:
  • Poor coordination.
  • Slurred speech.
  • Impaired thinking.
  • Memory impairment.
  • Wanting to stop drinking but not managing to do so.
  • Diverting energy from work, family, and social life in order to drink.
Sep 9, 2022

What are the 4 types of drinker? ›

There are four types of drinker – which one are you?
  • Social drinking. To date, nearly all the research on drinking motives has been done on teens and young adults. ...
  • Drinking to conform. ...
  • Drinking for enhancement. ...
  • Drinking to cope.

What are the 5 most common causes of alcoholism? ›

  • 1: Stress Relief. Whether at home, at work, or in any other environment that causes stress, some people will have a drink to unwind and relax. ...
  • 2: Family History. ...
  • 3: Personal Choice. ...
  • 4: Mental Health. ...
  • 5: Unsupervised Underage Drinking. ...
  • 6: Traumatic Experiences. ...
  • 7: Self-Esteem Issues. ...
  • 8: Increased Drinking Behaviors Over Time.
Oct 1, 2021

What counts as alcoholism? ›

Heavy Alcohol Use:

For men, consuming more than 4 drinks on any day or more than 14 drinks per week. For women, consuming more than 3 drinks on any day or more than 7 drinks per week.

What is considered a heavy drinker? ›

For men, heavy drinking is typically defined as consuming 15 drinks or more per week. For women, heavy drinking is typically defined as consuming 8 drinks or more per week.

What are the 4 risk factors for alcoholism? ›

Known Specific Risk Factors

Having a biological family member with alcoholism or drug addiction. Having a mental health condition such as bipolar disorder, depression, or anxiety. Experiencing peer pressure to drink, especially as a young adult. Having low self-esteem or self-worth.

Does drinking alcohol cause puffy face? ›

Alcohol can cause water retention in your face. This makes your face look bloated and puffy.

Is a bottle of wine a day too much? ›

Drinking a bottle of wine per day is not considered healthy by most standards. However, when does it morph from a regular, innocent occurrence into alcohol use disorder (AUD) or alcoholism? First, it's important to note that building tolerance in order to drink an entire bottle of wine is a definitive red flag.

What does long term alcohol do to the brain? ›

Alcohol makes it harder for the brain areas controlling balance, memory, speech, and judgment to do their jobs, resulting in a higher likelihood of injuries and other negative outcomes. Long-term heavy drinking causes alterations in the neurons, such as reductions in their size.

How do alcoholics act around? ›

Creating a Plan & What to Say
  1. Focus on your concern about your loved one's drinking. ...
  2. Explain that you're worried about your loved one's health. ...
  3. Avoid using labels like “alcoholic” or “addict.” Instead, focus on the person and their behavior instead of the label. ...
  4. Be empathic and understanding.
Oct 21, 2022

What are the 7 personality traits of an alcoholic? ›

Recognizing the Most Common Characteristics of an Alcoholic
  • Prioritizing Alcohol.
  • Placing Blame on Others.
  • Making Frequent Excuses.
  • Drinking Uncontrollably.
  • Struggling Financially.
  • Shifting Priorities.
  • Behaving Recklessly.
Dec 21, 2021

How long does Alcoholic last? ›

Blood: Alcohol is eliminated from the bloodstream at about 0.015 per hour. Alcohol can show up in a blood test for up to 12 hours. Urine: Alcohol can be detected in urine for up 3 to 5 days via the ethyl glucuronide (EtG) test or 10 to 12 hours via the traditional method.

Can someone drink everyday and not be an alcoholic? ›

Nine in 10 adults who drink too much alcohol are not alcoholics or alcohol dependent, according to a new study released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in collaboration with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

What is GREY area drinking? ›

Those who refer to themselves as gray area drinkers understand they are neither an occasional drinker nor an alcoholic. This type of drinking behavior is sometimes referred to as drinking in moderation. Gray area drinkers are those who have a daily habit of drinking in social settings or when at home alone.

What is the difference between a habitual drinker and an alcoholic? ›

However, there are subtle differences between heavy drinking and alcoholism. Problem drinking is associated with someone who drinks too much, too often, or during inappropriate situations. Alcoholism, on the other hand, is a complex disease characterized by compulsive drinking regardless of negative consequences.

How does alcohol affect personality? ›

Alcohol increases irritability and decreases inhibitions. With this combination, there is a chance you could be more mean or aggressive toward others. Alcohol clouds your judgment and leads to communication problems. This is especially true if the other person is also under the influence.

Is alcoholism a disease or a habit? ›

The American Medical Association (AMA) classified alcoholism as a disease in 1956 and included addiction as a disease in 1987. In 2011 the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) joined the AMA, defining addiction as a chronic brain disorder, not a behavior problem, or just the result of making bad choices.

What part of the body does alcohol mainly affect? ›

Liver: Heavy drinking takes a toll on the liver, and can lead to a variety of problems and liver inflammations including: Steatosis, or fatty liver.

What are the two types of alcoholic? ›

There are two categories of alcoholic beverages: distilled and undistilled. Undistilled drinks are also called fermented drinks. Fermentation is the process by which bacteria or yeast chemically converts sugar into ethanol. Wine and beer are both fermented, undistilled alcoholic beverages.

Can you drink at all if you are an alcoholic? ›

Moderate drinking is possible for some people who previously had an issue with alcohol, even for those who have joined Alcoholics Anonymous, although it's likely these individuals didn't have an official alcohol use disorder (commonly referred to as "alcoholism").

How much do you have to drink to get liver damage? ›

It is estimated that alcohol-related fatty liver disease develops in 90% of people who drink more than 40g of alcohol (or four units) per day. That's roughly the equivalent of two medium (175ml) glasses of 12% ABV wine, or less than two pints of regular strength (4% ABV) beer.

Is drinking every night normal? ›

Should I be concerned? ANSWER: Occasional beer or wine with dinner, or a drink in the evening, is not a health problem for most people. When drinking becomes a daily activity, though, it may represent progression of your consumption and place you at increased health risks.

What do you call a person who drinks alcohol everyday? ›

Alcoholism is also known as alcohol addiction, alcohol misuse or alcohol dependence. Medically, it's recognised as a type of 'alcohol-use disorder' which can be treated.

Is 35 drinks a week too much? ›

Am I drinking heavily? YES, if you are: A woman who has more than three drinks every day or 21 drinks per week. A man who has more than five drinks every day or 35 drinks per week.

Who is most vulnerable to alcohol? ›

Women appear to be more vulnerable than men to many adverse consequences of alcohol use. Women achieve higher concentrations of alcohol in the blood and become more impaired than men after drinking equivalent amounts of alcohol.

What are the psychological causes of alcoholism? ›

For some alcohol abusers, psychological traits such as impulsiveness, low self-esteem and a need for approval prompt inappropriate drinking. Some individuals drink to cope with or "medicate" emotional problems.

Can a doctor diagnose alcoholism? ›

While there are no specific tests to diagnose alcohol use disorder, certain patterns of lab test results may strongly suggest it. And you may need tests to identify health problems that may be linked to your alcohol use. Damage to your organs may be seen on tests. Complete a psychological evaluation.

What are the first signs of liver damage from alcohol? ›

About alcohol-related liver disease
  • feeling sick.
  • weight loss.
  • loss of appetite.
  • yellowing of the eyes and skin (jaundice)
  • swelling in the ankles and tummy.
  • confusion or drowsiness.
  • vomiting blood or passing blood in your stools.
Feb 13, 2023

What does alcohol face look like? ›

When you drink, the dehydrating (or 'diuretic') effect of alcohol means your skin loses fluid and nutrients that are vital for healthy-looking skin. This can make your skin look wrinkled, dull and grey, or bloated and puffy. Dehydrated skin may also be more prone to some types of eczema.

How does alcohol affect the armpits? ›

Essentially, drinking alcohol increases the amount of sweat the body produces and this is an issue for people who already sweat excessively. Alcohol intolerance can cause a person to sweat more excessively than normal, as can alcohol withdrawal.

What is the difference between alcohol use disorder and alcoholism? ›

Primary Differences

An alcohol use disorder is a medical diagnosis to describe a person or persons with an alcohol problem. Alcoholism is a non-medical term used to self-diagnose an individual who lacks consumption restraint. It is rare for a medical professional to diagnose a patient as an alcoholic.

What are three 3 examples of erratic drinking patterns that could be early signs of intoxication that you should watch out for in the group? ›

Erratic drinking patterns may include:
  • mixing a wide range of drink types.
  • drinking quickly and asking for more immediately.
  • ordering more than one drink for self-consumption.
  • mixing alcohol consumption with consumption of prescription or illicit drugs.
  • consistently returning to the tasting site to request more samples.

What are the three categories of alcohol use disorder? ›

Alcohol use disorder is organized into three categories: mild, moderate and severe. Each category has various symptoms and can cause harmful side effects. If left untreated, any type of alcohol abuse can spiral out of control.

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4. Alcoholism, Causes, Signs and Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment.
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