What Are The Symptoms Of Alcohol Use, Abuse, And Alcoholism?

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A high concentration of alcohol in the blood causes symptoms such as:

slurred speech
physical and motor impairment
difficulty concentrating
memory problems
poor decision-making abilities
risky behavior
blackouts
In rare cases, very high concentrations of alcohol in the blood can cause breathing problems, coma, or death.

Many people use alcohol with no ill effects. But even someone who is not alcoholic may experience effects such as illness, vomiting, or hangovers. Using alcohol can also lead to accidents, falls, drowning, fighting, or suicide. People should not attempt to drive or operate heavy machinery while under the effects of alcohol.

Symptoms of alcohol abuse or alcoholism include:

a strong desire to drink (cravings)
an inability to control cravings
an inability to stop drinking
an increased tolerance for alcohol
lying about drinking
attempting to drink without others knowing
an inability to get through everyday activities without drinking
Many alcoholics will continue to drink even when they develop drinking-related ...
... health problems. Loved ones often perceive a problem before the affected person does.

If someone who is dependent on alcohol stops drinking, he or she may have withdrawal symptoms including nausea, shaking, sweating, irritability, and anxiety.

Alcohol withdrawal can become a medical emergency. If seizures, severe vomiting, hallucinations, or fevers occur, seek immediate medical help. If you are an alcoholic and have had past difficulty with withdrawal symptoms, see a doctor before quitting. Also see a doctor before quitting alcohol if you are an alcoholic and you have other health conditions.

Alcoholism or alcohol abuse is considered a diagnosable condition when it impacts relationships, causes harm or injury, or has a negative effect on a person’s quality of life. Diagnosing alcohol abuse can be subjective. Often, concerned family and friends will help the person understand that drinking has gotten out of control, although he or she might not believe it.

In order to diagnose alcohol abuse or dependence, your doctor will ask you about your drinking habits and your health history. He or she will use blood tests to assess your overall health. A doctor will pay special attention to parts of the body most impacted by alcohol: the brain, heart, liver, and nervous system.