Medical Symptoms of Alcoholism

Alcoholism occurs when excessive drinking causes the body to become dependent on alcohol. People suffering this disease are unable to control their drinking and over time will begin to show symptoms of alcoholism.  Knowing the symptoms of alcoholism will help you determine if you are suffering from the disease and when to seek medical help.

Symptoms of Alcoholism:

• Often drinking alone or hiding their drinking from others


• Having a strong urge to drink or feeling like they need a drink


• Having problems at work or have a hard time keeping a job due to excessive drinking


• Have trouble remembering things such as conversations and commitments


• Mood swings- they may feel angry or anxious if they feel the need for a drink or there is not any alcohol around


• Lose interest in other activities that they once enjoyed; they may replace these activities with alcohol related activities


• Hiding their alcohol in places where others cannot find it


• Keeping alcohol in unusual places such as in their desk at work or in the car


• Begin to drive while intoxicated, even after receiving a DUI, they continue their reckless behavior


• Develop a greater tolerance for alcohol and may need to increase alcohol consumption in order to get a high.


• Going a certain amount of time without alcohol causes withdrawal symptoms such as sweating, nausea, fever or hallucinations


• Isolate themselves from family and friends to avoid being criticized about their behavior.

In order to overcome alcoholism, one should seek assistance from a health care professional. Different treatments are available such as detoxification, counseling, rehabilitation centers and medications. People suffering from alcoholism should enlist the help of a physician to find what treatment works best for them.