Many women will continue getting behind the wheel after drinking or two. For example, if she has to pick up her child from school, she may see being a little bit drunk and driving as a lesser evil than not picking up her child at all. Unfortunately, she may not be able to gauge how drunk she actually is. If you’ve ever found yourself in a dangerous situation because of drinking, you might have a problem with alcohol.

What are obvious signs of an alcoholic?

  • Experiencing temporary blackouts or short-term memory loss.
  • Exhibiting signs of irritability and extreme mood swings.
  • Making excuses for drinking such as to relax, deal with stress or feel normal.
  • Choosing drinking over other responsibilities and obligations.

We’re ready to help your loved one begin the journey to recovery — contact us to learn more about personalized, comprehensive treatment plans. If someone you know meets at least two of the following criteria, they may have an alcohol use disorder and need help. Treating alcohol use disorder requires managing a few different things, including detox, treating the underlying addiction and also offering aftercare and support for continued sober living. Anxiety, insomnia, sweating, nausea and high heart rate are all signs of alcoholism. Alcohol withdrawal can be difficult and, in some cases, life threatening.

Changes in your skin

When you have an alcohol use disorder, you have become dependent on alcohol despite the problems it may be causing you at work or at home. Alcoholism can cause lasting changes in the brain, which makes stopping the harmful drinking dangerous without professional help. Just over 14 million adults in the US had an alcohol use disorder in 2019. The presence of withdrawal symptoms is another indisputable sign of alcoholism. The occurrence of these symptoms indicates that the body has gotten so accustomed to having alcohol in the system that it responds violently when drinking is discontinued. Many people may require longer periods of treatment, with some even needing a full year of rehabilitation.

  • Give us a call and we can help find the right treatment program for you or your loved one – even if it’s not ours!
  • In extreme cases, an overdose can be life-threatening and deadly.
  • Many individuals with alcoholism are in denial or unaware that they have a problem.
  • It’s not a definite diagnosis, but it can help you figure out whether you or someone you love has an addiction to alcohol.

The Journal of American Medical Association said that women who consume anywhere between 2 to 5 drinks daily are 41% more likely to get breast cancer. Heavy alcohol consumption can also be linked to other cancers, such as cancers of the neck, the head, and the digestive tract. This can lead to resentment or cause issues among family and friends. Recovering alcoholics will usually later realize the damage they’ve done to those they love. This is why many alcohol rehab centers offer family programs, family therapy, and counseling.

Careers – Join Our Team

Excessive drinking can make you appear much older than you actually are. The physical and emotional damage that alcoholism can cause is well documented and backed up by a tremendous amount of evidence. Many people who have a drinking problem are informed about these potential consequences and as a result, genuinely want to quit. Focusing on and spending time on obtaining/using alcohol and battling the physical and emotional effects of alcohol use render a person far less capable of performing up to par in other areas of life. If a person regularly finds that he can’t stop drinking until alcohol is depleted, a blackout occurs, or he passes out, the person likely has a severe drinking problem. Not being able to regulate how much one drinks is a clear indicator of alcohol abuse.

The most destructive form of alcoholism is chronic alcoholism, an emotionally, socially and physically devastating disease. Alcoholism emerges from alcohol abuse, when there’s a pattern of drinking despite negative consequences. Alcoholism and alcohol abuse are both categorized as alcohol use disorders—affecting people of all ages and stages of life.

Patient Care Network

Some of the signs of alcoholism are obvious, while others are subtle. Take a look at many common ones below and consider whether any apply to your loved one. If so, it may be time to have a conversation about treatment options. At AspenRidge, we offer evidence-based treatment programs designed to address the physical, emotional, and social aspects of alcoholism. Our experienced medical professionals, therapists, and counselors provide compassionate and individualized care to help our clients recover and regain their health and well-being.

physical signs of alcoholism

Weight loss and weight gain are indicators that a person’s alcohol use is changing. Some people have a decreased appetite https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/10-major-physical-signs-of-alcoholism-to-watch-out-for/ for food and begin to lose weight. You may also experience weight gain because you crave high-fat foods.

Finding treatment for alcohol use disorder

Hence, seeking professional medical advice is crucial if you notice such symptoms. Drinking too much alcohol may lead to a tingling sensation or numbness in your legs, feet, or hands, known as alcoholic neuropathy. This is one of the most common side effects of long-term alcohol consumption. Additionally, heavy drinkers usually get most of their calories from alcohol.

  • This is why it is so important to remain in treatment as long as it takes to be able to best learn to manage addiction and maintain long-term sobriety.
  • Those who are serious about their recovery should reach out to family and friends.
  • According to the CDC, moderate drinking is defined as having two standard drinks or less per day for men and one drink or less per day for women.
  • Cirrhosis of the liver happens when your liver is scarred and permanently damaged by the alcohol you consume.
  • The scar tissue replaces the healthy liver tissue, preventing your liver from working as it should.