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Chronic Alcohol Abuse Definition

Chronic alcohol abuse can be defined by more than 3 or 4 drinks per day (depending on gender). Generally, women should drink less than men because women's bodies are composed off less water, therefore a woman is able to get drunk more quickly. Binge drinking may also be categorized as abusive. Those who rely on binges to relieve stress may damage their health over time and become more prone to diseases.

  1. Blackouts

    • Individuals who experience "blackouts" due to intoxication may have a chronic alcohol abuse problem. Blackouts are described as episodes of heavy drinking where an individual becomes unaware of their behavior to the point of forgetting events. This occurs because alcohol interferes with the brains ability to form long term memory, though former memories (those that occurred before the alcohol) will not be affected. As large amounts of alcohol are consumed, cognitive function declines, as does the measure of memory impairments.

    Increased Tolerance

    • For occasional drinkers, a few alcoholic beverages may cause intoxication. Those who drink heavily on a regular basis will build up a high tolerance for the alcohol, and they may require more beverages to become drunk. A warning sign of addiction is a growing consumption of alcohol, with fewer affects.

    Withdrawal

    • Those who chronically abuse alcohol will become physically dependent on the drug. This happens when the body becomes accustomed to the alcohol consumed. Physical illness may occur when the alcohol is not consumed; this is called withdrawal.
      Symptoms of withdrawal may include, sweating, shaking, nausea, and headaches. When these symptoms occur, it may be time to seek treatment.

      Treatment facilities and hospitals can provide a safe place for those desiring to "detox." Specific drugs may be prescribed to help the individual ween off the alcohol with fewer complications. In addition, hospitals and facilities may monitor patients with alcohol addictions to ensure that seizures and other reactions are controlled. For more on treatments, and alcohol abuse, see the Resources section.

    Mood Swings

    • Chronic alcohol abusers will have frequent drastic mood swings. This may occur when the individual is drinking or desiring to drink. Because alcohol is a depressant, it will help the individual to relax. This may result in feelings of euphoria. When the individual is craving alcohol, however, he may become agitated and irritable.

    Neglect

    • Chronic alcohol abusers may become disinterested in former hobbies or interests. In addition, they may become so consumed with drinking that they fail to follow through with responsibilities and commitments. Some examples include dropping out of sports, withdrawing from social clubs or gatherings, missing work, and neglecting relationships.

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