Alcoholism facts are important to know since alcoholism can be classified as a drug addiction.
Alcoholism facts include facts of alcoholism such as – physical dependence as well as psychological dependence can exist with this addiction.
Alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system. This can lead to a decrease in physical and mental activity and at the same time an increase in anxiety and tension.
A fact of alcoholism is that alcohol affects other systems in the body. Gastrointestinal tract irritation can happen with erosion of the esophagus and stomach linings, causing nausea, vomiting, even bleeding.
Additional alcoholism facts are that vitamins will not be absorbed properly, which can lead to a deficiency of nutrients if alcohol use continues. Liver disease may develop and can lead to cirrhosis.
The muscles of the heart may be affected. Sexual dysfunction may occur in men causing erection problems in men and women can cease having monthly periods.
Here are more alcoholism facts:
• Alcohol and caffeine are the two most widely abused substances in the world.
• Alcoholism is divided into two broad categories – abuse and dependence.
Dependency is the most serious condition since the person needs higher quantities of alcohol to achieve intoxication. Also, if alcohol is reduced or stopped, a dependent alcoholic will experience withdrawal symptoms.
• A person’s alcohol use is primarily influenced by attitudes developed during the first 20 years of life.
The parent’s attitudes and behaviors toward drinking, peer influence, society and family relationships all can impact one’s attitudes toward drinking alcohol.
• Alcohol abuse and dependency and related problems are increasing. About 15% of the population in the United States are problem drinkers.
Approximately 5% to 10% of male drinkers and 3% to 5% of female drinkers could be diagnosed as alcohol dependent – this means about 12 million people in the USA alone.
• About 20% of teens are “problem drinkers.” Problem drinking can result in getting drunk, having accidents related to alcohol use, or getting into trouble with the law, family members, friends or school due to alcohol use.
• The effects of alcohol appear within 10 minutes and peak at about 40 to 60 minutes. Alcohol stays in the bloodstream until the liver can break it down. If alcohol is consumed faster than it can be broken down by the liver, the blood alcohol concentration level rises.
• Alcoholism facts include the reality that each state has its own legal definition for alcohol intoxication. Intoxication is defined by blood alcohol concentration. The maximum legal limit usually falls between 0.08 and 0.10 in most states.
Often those closest to an alcoholic find it difficult to see and acknowledge that someone they know and care about can be an alcoholic.
They may believe the promises that the alcoholic keeps making. However, with time, repeated breaking of these promises can force those living with the alcoholic to face the truth.
If you or someone you know have felt like this, it is certainly possible to be freed from the compulsion to drink. Do not feel discouraged and that help does not exist – help DOES exist in various ways.
From Alcoholics Anonymous local groups to counselors to clergy to self-help books and online classes, you can choose from a variety of sources to obtain help with alcohol addiction.
And learn more on this website about additional alcoholism facts that help provide a better understanding of the warning signs, treatments and effects of alcoholism. It is never too late to start the recovery process from alcohol addiction.
Alcoholism facts and suggested products…
The drug called Antabuse is an alcohol-abuse deterrent used to help overcome drinking problems. Alcohol dependence is a common medical illness.
ReVia and Antabuse are precription drugs used in combination with other treatments such as counseling and support programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous.
Revia and Antabuse work in different ways to control alcoholism. ReVia reduces the craving and pleasurable effects associated with alcohol which helps people stop drinking.
Alcoholism facts and recommended books.
Beyond The Influence – Understanding & Defeating Your Problem with Alcohol by Katherine Ketcham, William Asbury, Mel Schulstad and Arthur P. Ciaramicoli.
Informative book that makes the case that alcoholism is a disease. Alcoholics experience a great of cravings that may keep them from quitting.
There is no doubt that alcohol affects body and mind and you should read this book to begin the process of helping yourself or a family member.
Anyone can become an alcoholic, but it is time you learn more about the process so you can quit! Your family will need to be involved, so they can understand and help you during these difficult times.
Related alcoholism facts articles
Ten warning signs of alcoholism.
Abuse effects and more alcoholism facts.
The three stages of alcoholism.
Alcoholism treatment information.
Best nutritional vitamins for men and women.
What is alcohol abuse intervention?
Search for an alcohol abuse treatment center near you.
Which alcoholism physical symptom can indicate alcohol abuse?
What are symptoms of cirrhosis of the liver?
Alcohol and health effects of alcohol on the body.
My relatives and friends have all been helping each other be on the watch for any unhealthy habits we may develop. It was very interesting to read that intoxication becomes harder to achieve for addicted individuals and this is a leading cause for the continued consumption of alcohol because a lot of us in the family like to casually drink alcoholic beverages for occasions but fear that someone might grow too attached to it to an unhealthy amount. I’ll be sure to keep your article in mind and look for any addiction treatment centers that we can call should that problem come up. Thank you!