Effects of alcoholism

Effects of alcohol abuse

The central nervous system, made up of the spinal cord and brain, has an important role to play in the functioning of human body. The effects of alcohol take place on many parts of this system. A low dose of alcohol reduces tension and lowers inhibitions. It may slow reflexes and reduce coordination powers. In medium doses alcohol can alter emotions and make one sleepy. A high dose of alcohol can produce breathing difficulties and unconsciousness. Sometimes it can be even fatal. Prolonged use of alcohol can damage the frontal lobes of the brain and cause a reduction in brain size. It may result in tolerance to the effects of alcohol and lead to Alcoholism.

Cardiovascular damage, weak immunity, pancreatic problems, neurological diseases, low blood sugar, high blood fat content and sexual dysfunction are among other major problems caused by alcohol. Consuming large amount of alcohol can raise blood pressure and cause heart problems. Moreover, alcoholics are not able to absorb vitamins properly. This may cause memory loss and anomalous co-ordination, which can be deadly if left untreated.
The dehydrating effect of ethanol can cause an unpleasant sensation, commonly known as hangover. Headache and nausea are the main hangover symptoms. Consuming a large amount of water will help to overcome hangover.
Alcoholism and depression

Alcoholism and depression tend to co-exist and both may transmit genetically as well. Many studies show that depressive syndrome is higher among alcoholics than among non-alcoholics. Alcohol induces biological changes similar to that of depression. Sometimes alcohol misuse can be considered as a symptom of depression also. Suicide is a significant risk in people who have alcohol related problems. In fact, presence of alcohol is detected in about 60% of the suicide victims at the time of death. A study shows that alcoholics are twice as likely as others to commit suicide in the home.


TERMS

Abstinence
Abstinence is the act or practice of refraining from indulging a desire. The type of abstinence we are referring to here is abstinence from drugs and alcohol. This term has two connotations when it comes to abstaining from drugs. The first refers to drug or alcohol treatment programs that aim to help an individual stop using drugs or alcohol for the rest of their lives. The time abstinence is also used in drug education and prevention. It refers to trying to stop children from ever using drugs.

Addiction Treatment
Addiction treatment is needed when an individual finds that they have developed a drug or alcohol addiction which they are not able to successful end on their own. With the help of addiction treatment, addicted individual can get help to control their drug taking behavior and live happy and successful lives. There are several addiction treatment options available for drug and alcohol addiction. Some of these options include self-help groups, counseling, drug rehabilitation programs (in and out-patient), and residential treatment facilities. Each of these differ in their aims and outcomes and elements of these addiction treatment options are often combined.

Intervention
An intervention is when a group of loved ones and/or a trained intervention counselor meets with the person in need of help for the purpose of breaking down their denial and motivating them to immediately seek drug addiction treatment. Often, individuals in the midst of drug addiction engage in a variety of self destructive behaviors. Although baffling to friends and family members such people generally either aren't aware on a conscious level that they have a drug addiction problem, or even when they know they have a problem they may cling to the false belief that the problem will somehow go away without any outside help. When an intervention is held a moment of clarity is created for the addict. Most people struggling with the problem of drug or alcohol addiction will accept help the very day of the intervention.

Alcoholism
Alcoholism, also known as "alcohol dependence," is a condition that includes craving and continued alcohol abuse despite repeated drinking-related problems, such as losing a job or getting into trouble with the law. It includes four major areas:
· Craving: - A strong need, or compulsion, to drink.
· Impaired control: -The inability to limit one's drinking on any given occasion.
· Physical dependence: -Withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety, when alcohol use is stopped after a period of heavy drinking.
· Tolerance: - The need for increasing amounts of alcohol in order to feel its effects.

Sobriety
Sobriety means the moderation in or abstinence from consumption of alcoholic liquor or use of drugs. When an individual with an addiction problem enters drug rehabilitation, their main goal is to attain long term sobriety. Unfortunately, sometimes drug addicts and alcoholics find they are able to sustain short periods of sobriety followed by a drug or alcohol relapse. This is why attending a drug or alcohol rehab will help the individual maintain their focus on sobriety. Often, it is only by getting help that individuals with severe drug addiction problems are able to achieve lasting sobriety.