Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)

Alcoholic beverages are commonly present at social events like parties, celebrations, and even funerals. However, recognizing when alcohol consumption becomes a problem can be challenging. Excessive alcohol use is one of the most commonly misused substances in the U.S. and can be more dangerous than many people realize.

What Is Alcohol Use Disorder (Alcohol Addiction)?

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), also known as alcohol addiction or alcoholism, is a medically recognized condition. A healthcare provider may diagnose AUD if at least two of the following occur within a 12-month period:

• Drinking in excess or over a long time
• Inability to reduce alcohol use
• Spending a lot of time getting, drinking, or recovering from alcohol
• Strong cravings for alcohol
• Neglecting responsibilities (family, work, social)
• Continuing to drink despite negative consequences
• Losing interest in activities due to drinking
• Drinking in hazardous situations
• Continued use despite physical or psychological harm
• Building tolerance to alcohol
• Withdrawal symptoms when not drinking

AUD is a hereditary condition, meaning those with a family history of alcoholism are more likely to develop it. AUD varies in severity but is treatable through support systems, detox, therapy, and long-term care.

Alcohol Abuse vs. Alcohol Addiction

Alcohol abuse refers to drinking beyond moderate limits, which the CDC defines as one drink per day for women and two for men. Heavy drinking is more than 15 drinks a week for men or 8 for women, while binge drinking is when a person’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) reaches 0.08% or more—usually from consuming 5 or more drinks in a short time.

Not everyone who abuses alcohol will develop AUD, but repeated misuse increases the risk. In 2022, around 29.5 million Americans experienced alcohol addiction.

Signs of Alcohol Abuse

If you experience any of the following, you might want to consult with a healthcare provider:

• Drinking without regard for the consequences
• Constantly thinking about alcohol
• Cravings for alcohol
• Frequently being drunk or hungover
• Failed attempts to cut down or stop drinking

Effects of Alcohol

Drinking alcohol typically results in intoxication or “getting drunk.” Short-term effects range from relaxation to riskier behaviors such as drunk driving or unprotected sex. In extreme cases, alcohol poisoning can occur, which is a medical emergency.

Some short-term effects include:

• Warm sensation in limbs
• Slurred speech
• Lowered inhibitions
• Memory loss (blackouts)
• Injuries or death from accidents

Long-term excessive drinking can result in severe health issues, including:

• Depression and anxiety
• Liver disease (cirrhosis)
• Heart disease, stroke, and cancer
• Weakened immune system

Alcohol Overdose (Alcohol Poisoning)

An alcohol overdose happens when too much alcohol disrupts essential bodily functions, such as breathing and heart rate. Symptoms include confusion, vomiting, slowed breathing, and seizures. In extreme cases, it can lead to death.

Alcohol Withdrawal

When someone becomes dependent on alcohol, stopping its use can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which may range in intensity. In severe cases, withdrawal can be dangerous and requires medical detox under professional supervision.

Alcohol Use Statistics

In 2022, 29.5 million people in the U.S. met the criteria for AUD. Additionally, around 44.5% of drinkers reported binge drinking, while 26.3% engaged in heavy drinking in the past month. Alcohol misuse is the third leading cause of preventable death in the U.S.

Treatment for Alcohol Addiction

Treatment for AUD may involve medical detox, therapy, and sometimes medication to manage withdrawal symptoms or reduce cravings. Medications like Acamprosate, Disulfiram, and Naltrexone can assist in the recovery process. Rehab programs, whether inpatient or outpatient, combined with behavioral therapy, are essential for long-term success.

Support After Treatment

Maintaining sobriety often involves joining support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or SMART Recovery, which provide ongoing assistance after treatment.