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Problems Related to Alcoholism

Alcoholism is considered a chronic disease, distinguished by a craving for alcoholic beverages, a loss of the ability to control one's physical and emotional states, withdraw symptoms such as shakiness and nausea and a high tolerance for large amounts of alcohol. Some issues associated with alcoholism are major health problems, diminished family relationships, difficulty functioning in everyday situations, birth defects in babies and a higher risk of dying of suicide or driving accidents.

  1. Health Problems

    • People who drink are at risk for liver disorders, such as inflammation and cirrhosis of the liver, as well as different types of cancer, including liver, esophagus, larynx, colorectal and breast cancer. They are also at risk for gastrointestinal issues, such as inflammation of the lining of the stomach, heart failure, stroke, bone loss and nervous system disorders.

    Family Relationships

    • Because alcoholism can cause people to feel disinterested in activities they once enjoyed, to feel extreme emotions such as anger and to spend money on alcohol to satisfy their cravings, many people with alcohol problems have a difficult time relating to and communicating with their friends and families. This issue can lead to larger problems within families that have someone who is an alcoholic, including financial hardship, domestic violence and divorce.

    Everyday Situations

    • People with alcohol problems often have a difficult time functioning at work or school because alcohol and other drugs they may be using can cause them to have hangovers, cravings, blackouts where they forget commitments and a general disinterest in everyday activities. Because of this, alcoholics often perform poorly at school and work.

    Birth Defects

    • Pregnant women who drink alcohol excessively put their babies at risk for birth defects such as fetal alcohol syndrome, which can cause physical and mental disabilities. Their babies may also be in danger of having central nervous system disorders; irregular facial features, such as a small head or short eyelids and learning disabilities, such as problems with listening, communicating and paying attention.

    Suicide and Death

    • Alcoholism can cause people to engage in destructive behaviors, such as drunk driving, that can lead to death. People who drink are also at a higher risk for suicide because alcohol can cause them to feel depressed and to engage in dangerous actions, both of which can lead to suicide.

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