Alcohol
Alcohol
Alcohol addiction, or alcoholism, involves the consistent pattern of drinking and difficulty controlling alcohol consumption. Additionally, the individual requires more alcohol to get the same effects, otherwise known as increasing their tolerance. Those with alcohol addiction also experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking or significantly decrease their alcohol intake.
Alcohol addiction includes periods of alcohol intoxication and withdrawal symptoms.
- Alcohol intoxication occurs after a significant amount of alcohol occurs in the bloodstream. When blood alcohol concentration increases, the more likely behavioral and mental changes occur. This includes poor judgment and decision making, inappropriate behavior, changes in mood, problems with attention or memory, and poor coordination. Very high blood alcohol levels can lead to brain damage and even death.
- Alcohol withdrawal occurs when alcohol use is rapidly reduced or stopped. Symptoms of withdrawal include a rapid heartbeat, sweating, nausea and vomiting, difficulty sleeping, agitation, anxiety, and occasionally seizures. Symptoms can lead to problems functioning in social and work situations.
