Alcoholism

Introduction: Alcoholism is a condition when a person has signs of physical addiction to alcohol and continues to drink, despite problems with physical and psychological health. Alcohol abuse is when person's drinking habits leads to problems, but not physical addiction.

These problems can lead to a number of harmful physical, psychological and socioeconomic effects such as alcohol poisoning, cirrhosis (A chronic disease interfering with the normal functioning of the liver;) of the liver, inability to work and socialize and destructive behaviors (violence and vandalism (damage)).

Alcoholism is not a gender related disease.

Symptoms: People who have alcoholism or alcohol abuse often:

• Continue to drink, even after knowing the ill effects of drinking
• Drink alone
• Become hostile when asked about drinking
• Unable to control drinking
• Make excuses to drink
• Miss work or school, or have a decrease in performance because of drinking
• Stop taking part in activities because of alcohol
• Need to consume alcohol on most days to get through the day
• Become violent if somebody tries to stop them to drink

In addition, a physical problem also develops. Alcoholics suffer from disturbing memory lapses called blackouts. Alcoholics eat poorly because their irritated liver and inflamed digestive systems lead to heart burns and nausea.

The warning signs are "slurred speech, alcohol odour".

"Dry drunk syndrome" is a syndrome characterized by short temper, irritability and restlessness.

Causes: The medical professional will perform a physical examination and ask questions about person's medical and family history, including use of alcohol.

Tests to rule out, if a person is alcoholic or not:

• Blood alcohol level
• Complete blood count
• Liver function test
• Magnesium blood test

Management: Treating alcoholism depends on how much a person drinks. Further treatment options are:

• Detoxification - It involves a nurse or doctor supporting the person to safely give up drinking. It can be done by helping the person to slowly reduce the alcohol intake over time or by medications. Thus reducing the withdrawal symptoms
• Counseling - It includes self-help groups and talking therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Medication - There are two main types of medicines to facilitate a person to stop drinking. The first is to help reduce withdrawal symptoms and is generally given in tapering doses over a short period of time.

The most common medicine that’s used in this way is called chlodiazapoxide (Librium). The another medication to reduce any urge that one may have to drink. The most common medications used for this are acamprosate and naltrexone; these medicines are given at a fixed dose and you'll usually be on them for 6-12 months.

Prevention: Tips for Prevention--Youth:

1. Don’t Be Afraid to Say No:  Sometimes, our fear of negative reaction from our friends, or others we don’t even know, keeps us from doing what we know is right.  Real simple, it may seem like “everyone is doing it,” but they are not.  Don’t let someone else make your decisions for you.  If someone is pressuring you to do something that's not right for you, you have the right to say no, the right not to give a reason why, and the right to just walk away.

1. Connect with Your Friends and Avoid Negative Peer Pressure:  Pay attention to who you are hanging out with.  If you are hanging out with a group in which the majority of kids are drinking alcohol or using drugs to get high, you may want to think about making some new friends.  You may be headed toward an alcohol and drug problem if you continue to hang around others who routinely drink alcohol, smoke marijuana, abuse prescription drugs or use illegal drugs.  You don't have to go along to get along.

1. Make Connections with Your Parents or Other Adults:  As you grow up, having people you can rely on, people you can talk to about life, life’s challenges and your decisions about alcohol and drugs is very important.  The opportunity to benefit from someone else’s life experiences can help put things in perspective and can be invaluable.

1. Enjoy Life and Do What You Love - Don’t Add Alcohol and Drugs:  Learn how to enjoy life and the people in your life, without adding alcohol or drugs.  Alcohol and drugs can change who you are, limit your potential and complicate your life.  Too often, “I’m bored” is just an excuse.  Get out and get active in school and community activities such as music, sports, arts or a part-time job.  Giving back as a volunteer is a great way to gain perspective on life.

1. Follow the Family Rules about Alcohol and Drugs:  As you grow up and want to assume more control over your life, having the trust and respect of your parents is very important.  Don’t let alcohol and drugs come between you and your parents.

1. Get Educated about Alcohol and Drugs:  You cannot rely on the myths and misconceptions that are out there floating around among your friends and on the internet.  Your ability to make the right decisions includes getting educated.  Visit Learn About Alcohol and Learn About Drugs.  And, as you learn, share what you are learning with your friends and your family.

1. Be a Role Model and Set a Positive Example:  Don’t forget, what you do is more important than what you say!  You are setting the foundation and direction for your life; where are you headed?

1. Plan Ahead:  As you make plans for the party or going out with friends you need to plan ahead.  You need to protect yourself and be smart.  Don’t become a victim of someone else’s alcohol or drug use.  Make sure that there is someone you can call, day or night, no matter what, if you need them.  And, do the same for your friends.

1. Speak Out/Speak Up/Take Control:  Take responsibility for your life, your health and your safety.  Speak up about what alcohol and drugs are doing to your friends, your community and encourage others to do the same.

1. Get Help!:  If you or someone you know is in trouble with alcohol or drugs, (What to Look For), get help.  Don’t wait.  You are not alone. Jaldihealthy is there for you.