Alcohol Problems
April 17, 2008 – 4:40 pm
The overuse or abuse of alcohol or other drugs is often happened to music people. It is common, costly, and associated with many medical problems.
A person has an alcohol use problem if he or she continues to drink even though alcohol is interfering with his or her or daily living. Alcoholism is defined as a physical or psychological dependence on alcohol.
Alcohol abuse patterns vary. Some people get drunk every day. Some drink amounts of alcohol at specific times, such as weekends. Others may be for long periods and then go on drinking binges that last for weeks or months.
For you know that long-term heavy drinking causes liver, nerve, heart, and brain damage; high blood pressure; stomach problems; sexual problems; and cancer. Alcohol abuse can also lead to violence, accidents, social isolation, and difficulties at work, at home, or with the law.
For older adults, it is especially important to remember that:
•Alcohol slows brain activity.
•Alcohol impairs mental alertness, memory, judgment, physical coordination, and reaction time.
•Heavy alcohol use can lead to loss of employment, friends, and loved ones.
•As a person gets older, it takes the body longer to break down alcohol, and the body’s tolerance for alcohol decreases. Drinking the same amount that you drank 20 years ago can cause a lot more damage.
•Alcohol can make existing medical problems worse.
•Tranquilizers, barbiturates, certain painkillers, and antihistamines all increase the intoxicating effect of alcohol.
•Alcohol interferes with the medical benefits of many drugs, including anticonvulsants, anticoagulants, and diabetes medications.
Signs that a person is dependent on alcohol include blackouts, drinking more and more for the same “high,” and being uncomfortable in situations where alcohol isn’t served. A person with alcoholism may gulp or sneak drinks, drink alone or early in the morning, and suffer from the shakes.
A person whose body is dependent on alcohol may suffer serious withdrawal symptoms (such as trembling, hallucinations, sweating, and seizures) if he or she suddenly quits drinking alcohol or tries to reduce his or her alcohol intake. Once alcohol dependency develops, it is very difficult for a person to stop drinking without outside help. Medical detoxification may be needed.
There is no advantages of consuming alcohol at all. Say no to alcohol.