Alcoholism Hazards
August 11, 2009
Alcoholism is a dangerous phenomenon exhibited by people who are addicted to alcohol and is a disease. In other words, the consumption of alcoholic beverages is termed as alcoholism and is also referred to as “dipsomaniaâ€.
The frequency of alcohol consumption differs to a great extent from person to person. At present about 90 % of the population consumes alcohol and a majority of them fall prey to the diseases caused by alcoholism.
The central nervous system is affected by alcohol. Here are some of the signs and symptoms of alcoholism -:
* Pain in abdomen.
* Confusion.
* Drinking alone.
* Acts of violence while drinking.
* Hostile behavior when told to quit drinking.
* Unable to reduce alcohol consumption.
* Making excuses to drink.
* Nausea and vomiting.
* Dependence on alcohol on daily basis.
* Neglecting meals.
* Numbness.
* Secretive acts to hide use of alcohol.
* Trembling in the morning
Let us look at some residential treatment programs -:
* Detoxification and Withdrawal:
Usually detoxification takes about four to seven days. Some sedating medications are taken to prevent deliriums.
*Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Medical Assessment:
High blood pressure, increased blood sugar, liver and heart disease are some problems related to alcoholism.
*Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Psychological Support:
Various counseling programs and family therapy programs offer advice and support to patients. Mental support goes a long way in helping the patient to recover.
*Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Importance of Acceptance:
Unless the patient himself accepts that he is affected, the treatment cannot be commenced.
*Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Drug Treatments:
An alcohol sensitizing drug called disulfiram (Antabuse) is a deterrent. Drugs generally don’t cure alcoholism and neither does it remove the strong desire to drink. But if alcohol is consumed after taking the drug, it causes nausea, vomiting and headaches.
However strong it may be, alcoholism can be treated. There are many treatment programs and rehabilitation centres which aim to remove alcoholism. But it is a fact that there is no medical cure available for the treatment of alcoholism.
Alcoholism is a social evil that interferes with physical health, mental health, social, family and job responsibilities. Alcoholism is similar to drug addiction – unless and until the patient himself promises to be cured, no amount of social pressure can really coax him to quit drinking.
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