Dipsomania

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Dipsomania

Dipsomania (/dɪpsoʊˈmeɪniə/; from Greek dipsa, "thirst" + mania, "madness") is a historical term describing a medical condition involving an uncontrollable craving for alcohol. In the 19th century, dipsomania was a variety of alcohol-related problems, most of which are known today as alcoholism.

Etymology

The term "dipsomania" comes from the Greek words dipsa meaning "thirst" and mania meaning "madness". It was first used in the early 19th century to describe a particular condition of periodic, compulsive bouts of alcohol intake.

Symptoms

The primary characteristic of dipsomania is an uncontrollable craving for alcohol. This is not a constant craving, but rather an intermittent and insatiable desire. The individual may remain sober for long periods, but once the craving strikes, it overrides all other concerns. This can lead to extended periods of intoxication, often followed by a corresponding period of hangovers or withdrawal.

Related Terms

  • Alcoholism: A broad term for any drinking of alcohol that results in mental or physical health problems.
  • Intoxication: The state of being intoxicated, especially by consumption of excessive amounts of alcohol.
  • Hangover: The experience of various unpleasant physiological and psychological effects following the consumption of alcohol.
  • Withdrawal: The group of symptoms that occur upon the abrupt discontinuation or decrease in intake of medications or recreational drugs.

See Also

External links

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