Alcoholism impacts millions globally, and can progress from mild alcohol use to severe alcohol dependence if left untreated. For this reason, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) recognizes alcoholism as a chronic progressive disease. This article explores the stages, symptoms, and options available for treating alcohol use disorders.
NUMA Recovery Centers is a detox and rehab center that is dedicated to providing comprehensive treatment for people struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. Our treatment program also addresses dual diagnosis to support effective addiction recovery. Take the first step toward addiction treatment and long-term recovery, and contact NUMA Recovery Centers today.
Quick Points
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Alcohol use disorder is considered both a chronic and progressive disease due to its physical and mental effects on individuals.
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Alcoholism is identifiable through several signs, including the manifestation of withdrawal symptoms, the development of alcohol-related liver diseases, and other chronic diseases.
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Alcoholism increases the risk of developing physical health problems, like liver diseases and cardiovascular issues, and mental health disorders, such as cognitive impairment and memory loss.
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Early intervention is critical in treating alcoholism as this prevents the progression of chronic diseases associated with alcohol dependence.
Is Alcoholism a Chronic, Progressive Disease? Understanding Alcohol Addiction
Alcoholism is considered a progressive disease because it worsens over time if left untreated. The persistent and chronic nature of alcohol dependence can lead to severe alcohol use disorder, which can have adverse effects on an individual’s physical and mental health over time.
Several health and medical institutions, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Medical Association (AMA), highlight the progressive nature of alcoholism, particularly its long-term effects. It can lead to numerous adverse health conditions, such as liver damage, cardiovascular disease, and impaired mental health.
Stages of Alcohol Addiction
Experimental Use
Many people start drinking out of curiosity or to fit in socially. While drinking alcohol may feel harmless at this stage, repeated alcohol consumption helps build tolerance to its effects.
Regular Alcohol Consumption
At this stage, drinking alcohol becomes a routine, whether during social gatherings or as a way to unwind. This drinking behavior can increase the risk of alcohol dependence.
Binge-Drinking
A person consumes more alcohol than is necessary, without regard for one’s safety or consequences. According to the National Institute for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), binge drinkers usually have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. This corresponds to 5 or more alcoholic drinks in men or 4 or more alcoholic drinks in women.
Developing Alcohol Dependence
Once a person builds tolerance for alcohol, they will need more alcohol to feel the same rewarding effects, which leads to dependence and habit formation. Quitting or cutting back on alcohol consumption becomes more difficult.
Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol use disorder results in excessive alcohol use and an inability to control alcohol consumption, leading to physical and mental health concerns.
Signs of Alcohol Abuse
Identifying the signs of alcohol abuse is crucial for seeking effective alcohol treatment. Some signs of problematic drinking behaviors include:
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Physical health issues — Chronic alcohol abuse can lead to physical health problems, such as alcohol-associated liver diseases and cardiovascular issues.
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Engaging in risky behaviors — Driving under the influence or engaging in unprotected sex are signs of behaviors that are associated with chronic alcohol abuse.
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Withdrawal symptoms — Experiencing alcohol withdrawal when you quit drinking is a clear sign of alcohol use disorder and may require professional help for substance use treatment.
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Neglecting responsibilities — One behavioral pattern associated with alcohol abuse is neglecting family responsibilities, including work or school commitments.
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Interpersonal and social problems — A common sign of alcohol addiction is withdrawing from social activities and avoiding gatherings, which can negatively impact interpersonal relationships.
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Inability to quit drinking — Many individuals attempt to quit drinking but find it difficult because their bodies have become accustomed to the rewarding effects of alcohol.
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Using alcohol to cope — People with alcohol addiction turn to alcohol to manage stress or cope with mental disorders, like anxiety or depression, which only maintain the cycle of dependence.
Risks Associated with Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol use disorder negatively impacts an individual. The associated risks are identified as follows:
Health Problems
Long-term alcohol abuse can result in other chronic diseases. Examples of these alcohol-related diseases, include liver cirrhosis, alcoholic hepatitis, and heart diseases like stroke and increased high blood pressure. The NIAAA emphasizes that these health issues often stem from excessive drinking over time.
Mental Disorders
Alcohol addiction is linked to various mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) considers chronic and severe alcohol use can increase the risk of mental disorders and cognitive impairment. However, many people drink alcohol to cope with these conditions, which only leads to a cycle of perpetuity.
Increased Risk of Accidents
Drinking alcohol impairs judgment and coordination, which can increase the likelihood of accidents, including motor vehicle crashes. Engaging in heavy drinking not only endangers the alcoholic but also puts others at risk.
Risk of Overdose
Severe cases of alcohol addiction can lead to life-threatening health concerns, such as alcohol overdose. It’s critical to recognize the signs to prevent the risk of alcohol poisoning, which include:
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Disorientation
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Stupor
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Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness
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Seizures
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Slow or irregular breathing
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Inability to walk or stand up
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Vomiting
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Pale and clammy skin
Why Early Intervention Is Important in Treating Alcohol Use Disorder?
Early intervention is critical in alcohol treatment, as this step prevents the progression of alcoholism into more severe stages. Other important reasons include are as follows:
Ensures Better Recovery Outcome
Early alcohol treatment can improve recovery outcomes, as this approach helps prevent severe health complications and the development of chronic diseases associated with prolonged alcohol use.
Addresses Co-occurring Disorders
Medical professionals can address co-occurring disorders through early diagnosis; effective substance abuse treatment supports both mental and physical health, which improves overall recovery.
Reduces Complications from Chronic Diseases
Early intervention helps reduce the risks associated with alcohol use disorder, such as alcohol-related liver diseases, severe heart conditions, and other chronic diseases.
Supports the Decision to Quit Drinking
While alcohol addiction makes quitting alcohol difficult, addiction specialists can provide strategies designed to prevent relapse and reduce cravings, especially during alcohol withdrawal.
Manages Withdrawal Symptoms
Professional treatment ensures the safe management of withdrawal symptoms and alleviates the risks associated with quitting alcohol cold turkey or the onset of serious symptoms like delirium tremens.
How Can NUMA Help?
NUMA Recovery Centers recognizes the concern alcohol dependence has on individuals struggling with this chronic and progressive disease. This is why our treatment programs also focus on addressing alcohol use disorder through early intervention and various therapy modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and relapse prevention.
The opportunity to break the cycle of addiction starts today. Visit NUMA Recovery Centers and allow us to help you achieve an addiction-free future.
Adam Zagha
