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Signs and Symptoms of a Relapsing Alcoholic

When an alcoholic who has completed rehabilitative treatment suddenly slips off the wagon, it can be a devastating blow to friends, family and the alcoholic. Many alcoholics relapse once or several times over the course of their lives. It's important to get them back into treatment as soon as symptoms arise. Knowing the signs of relapse will help loved ones to get the alcoholic the help she needs.

  1. Anger

    • One of the most obvious symptoms of relapse is anger. It can include irritability and snapping at simple questions. Asking the person about relapsing can trigger an outburst. A calm and relaxing conversation can be taking place, and the alcoholic may snap and say things that are mean or off-color. This is due to the added stress of his physical and emotional state, combined with fighting the urge to drink.

    Physical Changes

    • For some relapsing alcoholics, others may notice physical changes. They may include one or a combination of changes, including weight loss, hair loss, blood in the stool, bloodshot eyes, shaking, abnormal gait, stumbling, incoherence, mumbling of words or sweating. The changes depend on how well the alcoholic holds her liquor and how much she tends to drink before going out in public.

    Disappearing

    • Some relapsing alcoholics go on sudden binges. They may buy an excessive amount of alcohol and then disappear for days at a time. They may drink alone or with a partner. Some rent a hotel room for a week or more, and spend the entire time in the room drinking. This can be very dangerous if they require medical care and no one knows where they are.

    Lying

    • One of the first signs of a relapse can be when the alcoholic lies to friends and family. It can be about the simplest things, because they feel they have to lie about everything to cover up their disease. Money is one of the first things they lie about. They may steal or not pay their bills just to feed their alcohol habit. Worse yet, many lose their jobs, and borrow money or steal to buy alcohol.

    Relapse Excuses

    • Most relapsing alcoholics invent excuses to cover up their habit. They may say they are dieting, and that is why they are sweating or their hair is falling out. Others may excuse their bloodshot eyes to allergies. Most try to cover up their habit with more lies. Loved ones can observe their living quarters for signs of alcohol, or inquire at their job to see when was the last time they worked.

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