Alcoholism: Difference between revisions

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

CSV import
CSV import
 
(One intermediate revision by the same user not shown)
Line 1: Line 1:
{{short description|A chronic disease characterized by uncontrolled drinking and preoccupation with alcohol}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}}


'''Alcoholism''', also known as '''alcohol use disorder''', is a chronic disease characterized by uncontrolled drinking and preoccupation with alcohol. It is a condition that can lead to significant health, social, and economic problems.
{{Infobox medical condition
| name            = Alcoholism
| image          =[[File:A_wife_asking_her_drunkard_husband_to_hand_over_a_bottle_Wellcome_L0067935.jpg|250px]]
| caption        = A depiction of a wife asking her drunkard husband to hand over a bottle
| field          = [[Addiction medicine]]
| synonyms        = Alcohol use disorder (AUD), alcohol dependence
| symptoms        = [[Alcohol intoxication]], [[withdrawal symptoms]], [[craving]], inability to control drinking
| complications  = [[Liver disease]], [[cardiovascular disease]], [[pancreatitis]], [[cancer]], [[neurological disorders]]
| onset          = Gradual
| duration        = Long-term
| causes          = [[Genetic predisposition]], [[environmental factors]], [[psychological factors]]
| risks          = [[Family history]], [[mental health disorders]], [[peer pressure]], [[early exposure]]
| diagnosis      = Based on [[DSM-5]] criteria, [[ICD-10]] criteria
| differential    = [[Bipolar disorder]], [[schizophrenia]], [[anxiety disorders]], [[depression]]
| prevention      = [[Education]], [[counseling]], [[support groups]]
| treatment      = [[Detoxification]], [[rehabilitation]], [[counseling]], [[medications]]
| medication      = [[Disulfiram]], [[naltrexone]], [[acamprosate]]
| prognosis      = Variable; depends on severity and treatment
| frequency      = Common; affects millions worldwide
| deaths          = Significant contributor to global mortality
}}
== Alcoholism ==


==Overview==
[[File:A_wife_asking_her_drunkard_husband_to_hand_over_a_bottle_Wellcome_L0067935.jpg|A wife asking her drunkard husband to hand over a bottle|thumb|right]]
Alcoholism is a complex condition that involves a variety of factors, including genetic, psychological, and environmental influences. It is marked by an inability to control drinking due to both a physical and emotional dependence on alcohol. Individuals with alcoholism often continue to drink despite the negative consequences it may have on their health, relationships, and responsibilities.


==Symptoms==
'''Alcoholism''', also known as '''alcohol use disorder''', is a broad term for any drinking of [[alcohol]] that results in mental or physical health problems. It is a chronic disease characterized by uncontrolled drinking and preoccupation with alcohol. Alcoholism is a major public health issue, affecting millions of people worldwide.
Symptoms of alcoholism include a strong craving for alcohol, inability to limit drinking, withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, and a need to drink more to achieve the same effect. Over time, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to a range of health issues, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and neurological damage.


==Causes==
== Symptoms ==
The causes of alcoholism are multifaceted and include genetic predisposition, mental health disorders, social environment, and cultural influences. Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are significant risk factors for developing alcohol dependency.


==Diagnosis==
The symptoms of alcoholism include a strong craving for alcohol, inability to control drinking, withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, and the need to drink more to achieve the same effect. Individuals with alcoholism may also experience social, occupational, or legal problems as a result of their drinking.
Diagnosis of alcoholism is typically based on a combination of medical history, physical examination, and the use of standardized screening tools. Healthcare providers may use criteria from the [[Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders]] (DSM) to assess the severity of the disorder.


==Treatment==
== Causes ==
Treatment for alcoholism often involves a combination of therapies, including behavioral therapy, medication, and support groups. [[Alcoholics Anonymous]] is one of the most well-known support groups that provides a community for individuals seeking to overcome alcohol dependency.


==Prevention==
[[File:Mental_health_as_a_risk_factor_for_alcohol_dependency_or_abuse,_OWID.svg|Mental health as a risk factor for alcohol dependency|thumb|left]]
Preventive measures for alcoholism include education about the risks of excessive drinking, promoting healthy lifestyle choices, and providing support for individuals at risk of developing alcohol use disorders.


==Epidemiology==
The causes of alcoholism are complex and involve a combination of genetic, environmental, psychological, and social factors. Mental health disorders such as [[depression]] and [[anxiety]] are significant risk factors. Family history of alcoholism and exposure to peer pressure or stressful environments can also contribute to the development of the disorder.
Alcohol use disorders are prevalent worldwide, with varying rates across different regions and populations. Maps illustrating the prevalence of alcohol use disorders by gender highlight the global impact of this condition.


==Related pages==
== Diagnosis ==
* [[Alcohol use disorder]]
 
* [[Substance abuse]]
Diagnosis of alcoholism is typically based on a combination of self-reported drinking behavior, physical examinations, and laboratory tests. The [[Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders]] (DSM-5) provides criteria for diagnosing alcohol use disorder, which includes a pattern of alcohol use leading to significant impairment or distress.
 
== Effects ==
 
[[File:Possible_long-term_effects_of_ethanol.svg|Possible long-term effects of ethanol|thumb|right]]
 
Alcoholism can have severe long-term effects on the body, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and neurological damage. It can also lead to [[mental health]] issues such as depression and anxiety. Socially, alcoholism can result in strained relationships, job loss, and legal issues.
 
== Treatment ==
 
Treatment for alcoholism may include a combination of [[detoxification]], counseling, and medication. Behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are commonly used to help individuals change their drinking behavior. Medications like [[naltrexone]] and [[acamprosate]] can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
 
== Epidemiology ==
 
[[File:Map_of_alcohol_use_disorders_by_females_only.svg|Map of alcohol use disorders by females|thumb|left]]
[[File:Map_of_alcohol_use_disorders_by_males_only.svg|Map of alcohol use disorders by males|thumb|right]]
 
Alcoholism affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. However, the prevalence of alcohol use disorders varies by region and demographic group. Men are generally more likely to develop alcoholism than women, although the gap is narrowing in some areas.
 
== History ==
 
[[File:William_Hogarth_-_Gin_Lane.jpg|William Hogarth's "Gin Lane"|thumb|right]]
 
The history of alcoholism dates back to ancient times, with evidence of alcohol consumption found in early civilizations. The social and cultural attitudes towards alcohol have evolved over time, with periods of prohibition and regulation. The depiction of alcohol abuse in art and literature, such as William Hogarth's "Gin Lane," highlights the longstanding awareness of its societal impact.
 
== Social Impact ==
 
[[File:A_maniacal_man_is_visited_in_prison_by_his_children,_all_rui_Wellcome_V0019408.jpg|A maniacal man is visited in prison by his children|thumb|left]]
 
Alcoholism has significant social implications, affecting not only the individual but also their family and community. It can lead to domestic violence, child neglect, and financial instability. The stigma associated with alcoholism can also hinder individuals from seeking help.
 
== Prevention ==
 
Prevention strategies for alcoholism include public health campaigns, education about the risks of excessive drinking, and policies to limit alcohol availability. Early intervention and support for at-risk individuals can also help prevent the development of alcohol use disorders.
 
== Related pages ==
* [[Alcohol abuse]]
* [[Substance use disorder]]
* [[Liver disease]]
* [[Liver disease]]
* [[Mental health]]
* [[Mental health]]


==Gallery==
{{Alcoholism}}
<gallery>
{{Substance-related disorders}}
File:A_wife_asking_her_drunkard_husband_to_hand_over_a_bottle_Wellcome_L0067935.jpg|A wife asking her drunkard husband to hand over a bottle
File:Possible_long-term_effects_of_ethanol.svg|Possible long-term effects of ethanol
File:A_maniacal_man_is_visited_in_prison_by_his_children,_all_rui_Wellcome_V0019408.jpg|A maniacal man is visited in prison by his children
File:Mental_health_as_a_risk_factor_for_alcohol_dependency_or_abuse,_OWID.svg|Mental health as a risk factor for alcohol dependency
File:William_Hogarth_-_Gin_Lane.jpg|William Hogarth's "Gin Lane"
File:Map_of_alcohol_use_disorders_by_females_only.svg|Map of alcohol use disorders by females
File:Map_of_alcohol_use_disorders_by_males_only.svg|Map of alcohol use disorders by males
File:Emil_Mayer_024.jpg|Emil Mayer photograph
File:Alcoholics_Anonymous_Regional_Service_Center_by_David_Shankbone.jpg|Alcoholics Anonymous Regional Service Center
</gallery>


[[Category:Addiction]]
[[Category:Addiction]]
[[Category:Alcohol abuse]]
[[Category:Alcohol abuse]]
[[Category:Substance-related disorders]]
[[Category:Substance-related disorders]]
== Alcoholism ==
<gallery>
File:A wife asking her drunkard husband to hand over a bottle Wellcome L0067935.jpg|A wife asking her drunkard husband to hand over a bottle
File:Map of alcohol use disorders by females only.svg|Map of alcohol use disorders by females
File:Map of alcohol use disorders by males only.svg|Map of alcohol use disorders by males
</gallery>

Latest revision as of 05:06, 4 April 2025


Alcoholism
Synonyms Alcohol use disorder (AUD), alcohol dependence
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Alcohol intoxication, withdrawal symptoms, craving, inability to control drinking
Complications Liver disease, cardiovascular disease, pancreatitis, cancer, neurological disorders
Onset Gradual
Duration Long-term
Types N/A
Causes Genetic predisposition, environmental factors, psychological factors
Risks Family history, mental health disorders, peer pressure, early exposure
Diagnosis Based on DSM-5 criteria, ICD-10 criteria
Differential diagnosis Bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, anxiety disorders, depression
Prevention Education, counseling, support groups
Treatment Detoxification, rehabilitation, counseling, medications
Medication Disulfiram, naltrexone, acamprosate
Prognosis Variable; depends on severity and treatment
Frequency Common; affects millions worldwide
Deaths Significant contributor to global mortality


== Alcoholism ==
A wife asking her drunkard husband to hand over a bottle

Alcoholism, also known as alcohol use disorder, is a broad term for any drinking of alcohol that results in mental or physical health problems. It is a chronic disease characterized by uncontrolled drinking and preoccupation with alcohol. Alcoholism is a major public health issue, affecting millions of people worldwide.

Symptoms[edit]

The symptoms of alcoholism include a strong craving for alcohol, inability to control drinking, withdrawal symptoms when not drinking, and the need to drink more to achieve the same effect. Individuals with alcoholism may also experience social, occupational, or legal problems as a result of their drinking.

Causes[edit]

Mental health as a risk factor for alcohol dependency

The causes of alcoholism are complex and involve a combination of genetic, environmental, psychological, and social factors. Mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety are significant risk factors. Family history of alcoholism and exposure to peer pressure or stressful environments can also contribute to the development of the disorder.

Diagnosis[edit]

Diagnosis of alcoholism is typically based on a combination of self-reported drinking behavior, physical examinations, and laboratory tests. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) provides criteria for diagnosing alcohol use disorder, which includes a pattern of alcohol use leading to significant impairment or distress.

Effects[edit]

Possible long-term effects of ethanol

Alcoholism can have severe long-term effects on the body, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and neurological damage. It can also lead to mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. Socially, alcoholism can result in strained relationships, job loss, and legal issues.

Treatment[edit]

Treatment for alcoholism may include a combination of detoxification, counseling, and medication. Behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are commonly used to help individuals change their drinking behavior. Medications like naltrexone and acamprosate can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Epidemiology[edit]

Map of alcohol use disorders by females
Map of alcohol use disorders by males

Alcoholism affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. However, the prevalence of alcohol use disorders varies by region and demographic group. Men are generally more likely to develop alcoholism than women, although the gap is narrowing in some areas.

History[edit]

William Hogarth's "Gin Lane"

The history of alcoholism dates back to ancient times, with evidence of alcohol consumption found in early civilizations. The social and cultural attitudes towards alcohol have evolved over time, with periods of prohibition and regulation. The depiction of alcohol abuse in art and literature, such as William Hogarth's "Gin Lane," highlights the longstanding awareness of its societal impact.

Social Impact[edit]

A maniacal man is visited in prison by his children

Alcoholism has significant social implications, affecting not only the individual but also their family and community. It can lead to domestic violence, child neglect, and financial instability. The stigma associated with alcoholism can also hinder individuals from seeking help.

Prevention[edit]

Prevention strategies for alcoholism include public health campaigns, education about the risks of excessive drinking, and policies to limit alcohol availability. Early intervention and support for at-risk individuals can also help prevent the development of alcohol use disorders.

Related pages[edit]

Template:Alcoholism Template:Substance-related disorders