Alcoholism Symptoms
The symptoms of alcoholism can be considered in two parts: inebriation, which is relatively easy to diagnose, and the symptoms and behaviors which alcoholics present, even when not under the influence.
Given that alcohol consumption is socially acceptable, it would probably be quite difficult to find someone who couldn't tell when an individual was inebriated or “drunk.” In addition to slurred speech, difficulty balancing and frequent breaks in the person's train of thought or conversation, a person who is drunk will exhibit glassy, reddened eyes that will have difficulty focusing on, or following, an object.
The symptom that differentiates the alcohol drinker from the alcoholic is the inability to moderate one's drinking. Alcoholics lack the capacity to stop, like those afflicted with any addiction. Alcoholics can become argumentative, confrontational or threatening when someone interferes with their drinking. They can be physically or emotionally abusive, irresponsible, and unable to hold a job. They come to view alcohol as the solution—rather than the cause—for their problems
Alcoholism Withdrawal Symptoms:
According to the National Institutes of Health, withdrawal symptoms fall into three categories, separated by their severity, both physical and psychological:
Psychological symptoms – mild to moderate
Feeling jumpy, nervous or shaky
Feelings of anxiety
Irritability, easily excitable
Emotional volatility, rapid changes in emotions
Depression
Fatigue
Difficulty thinking clearly
Bad dreams
Physical symptoms – mild to moderate
Headache (generalized, pulsating)
Sweating (especially on the palms of the hands)
Nausea, vomiting
Loss of appetite
Insomnia, sleeping difficulties
Pale complexion
Rapid heart rate (heart palpitations)
Clammy skin
Eyes (pupils different sizes, enlarged or dilated pupils)
involuntary, abnormal movements (such as hand tremors)
Severe symptoms — physical and psychological
Generalized state of confusion
Hallucinations
Agitation
High fever
Convulsions
Black out episodes (individual cannot remember what happened while drinking)
Please call us today for more information on how we address alcoholism at 949.388.0112.
