Introduction
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic disease that affects millions of Americans. It can lead to serious health problems and even death if left untreated. However, effective treatment and prevention can help people recover.
What Is Alcohol Use Disorder?
AUD is also known as alcoholism, alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, or alcohol addiction. People with AUD struggle to control their drinking, often continuing to drink even when it causes problems. They may also have withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop drinking suddenly. In 2019, over 14 million American adults and 414,000 adolescents had AUD.
Causes
Drinking too much alcohol over time can change how the brain functions, leading to cravings and negative emotions. These lasting changes in the brain can increase the risk of relapse and make recovery more difficult.
Complications
Alcohol use disorder can cause serious health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, digestive problems, cancer, and weak immune system. Drinking too much alcohol can also lead to injuries, violence, alcohol poisoning, and risky sexual behavior.
Signs and Symptoms
If your drinking habits create problems in your daily life, you may have AUD. Symptoms can include difficulty controlling how much you drink, feeling a strong urge to drink, and failing to fulfill responsibilities due to alcohol use.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing AUD include drinking too much too quickly, drinking too much too often, depression, family history, and trauma. Alcohol use that begins in the teens and having friends or a close partner who drinks regularly can also increase the risk.
Prevention
Excessive alcohol use can be prevented. Parents can help prevent teenage alcohol use by setting a good example, talking openly with their child, and being involved in their child’s life. Everyone can contribute to the prevention of excessive alcohol use by drinking in moderation, not providing alcohol to those who should not be drinking, and seeking help if they drink too much.
Treatment
Behavioral therapies, medications, and mutual-support groups can help individuals with AUD achieve and maintain recovery. Treatment can include assessment, detox, treatment programs, recovery supports, and medications. Medical help may be needed to address withdrawal symptoms for those with severe AUD.
Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. MHEDS’ providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.
Want to get a headstart on your health? We deliver a Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support program accredited by the Association of Diabetes Care & Education Specialists to meet the needs of people affected by the disease. Call MHEDS at 814-453-6229 (Peach Street) or 814-616-7730 (John F. Kennedy Center).
Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. MHEDS’ providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.
SOURCES
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2022, April 14). Alcohol Use and Your Health. CDC.gov. Retrieved March 13, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2022, December 7). Preventing Excessive Alcohol Use. CDC.gov. Retrieved March 13, 2023, from https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/prevention.htm
Gerchalk, R. (2022). Alcohol Awareness Month. Retrieved March 13, 2023, from https://alcoholawareness.org/alcohol-awareness-month/
Mayo Clinic (2022, May 18). Alcohol Use Disorder. MayoClinic.org. Retrieved March 13, 2023, from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/alcohol-use-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20369243
National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc. (2021, November 7). April is Alcohol Awareness Month. NCADD.org. Retrieved February 21, 2023, from https://ncadd.us/about-ncadd/events-awards/alcohol-awareness-month
