Alcohol addiction can be harmful for many and difficult to recover. Here is what you need to know.
Alcohol Addiction
When you drink you may feel like you are the life of the party and invincible, but the truth is that alcohol causes a lot of health problems and other issues. Although alcohol is legal and considered a socially acceptable substance, many people struggle with alcohol addiction and face legal repercussions.
The effects of alcohol addiction on your body begin immediately. You may experience:
- Reduced inhibitions
- Mental confusion
- Slurred speech
- Reduced reaction time
- Loss of coordination
- Loss of body heat despite feeling warm
Long term alcohol abuse and addiction causes the following effects:
- Liver cirrhosis (scarring)
- Pancreatic inflammation
- Cancers (mouth, liver, larynx, and throat)
- Accidental injuries
- Depression
Drinking large quantities of alcohol in a short period of time (binging), can cause alcohol poisoning, even the first time. Alcohol poisoning can be extremely dangerous and can lead to death if not treated early.
Physical responses to alcohol poisoning may include:
- Loss of consciousness
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Very low blood sugar levels
- Difficulty breathing
Symptoms of Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol addiction is considered a chronic, progressive disease. There is no specific amount of alcohol required to become addicted. Recognizing warning signs of alcohol addiction can greatly help lessen the damage done to your body.
You may be displaying signs of alcohol addiction if:
- You can’t seem to stop drinking, no matter how hard you try.
- You need to drink more to get the same effect.
- You have withdrawal symptoms when you stop drinking.
- Your relationships have been affected because of your drinking.
- You continue drinking even though you are experiencing health issues.
- You drink alone and at all hours of the day.
- You feel guilty after drinking.
- You make excuses to defend your drinking.
- You conceal your drinking from friends and family.
- You stash large quantities of alcohol to avoid running out, and the idea of running out of alcohol causes uneasiness and panic.
- You exhibit physical signs of alcohol dependence, including weight loss, upset stomach or rosy nose and cheeks.
At Asana Recovery, we understand how difficult recovering from these addictions through our daily work to help those struggling most from this disease. While some may believe they can make it alone, rehabilitation programs are essential in the fight to break dependency. The road ahead is not a smooth or easy one, but you can traverse it if done so with the support of the right team. Counseling and aftercare processes can assist you by addressing the psychological facets that led you to addition and help you build a structure from which to better cope with life without succumbing to addiction.
The supervised detoxification and residential treatment programs at Asana Recovery are offered in a supportive, relaxing, and inspiring environment. We’re deeply committed to ensuring your long-term recovery, and guiding you on your path to a healthier and happier future. There is no better time than now, and we’re always available to speak with you. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our comprehensive drug and alcohol addiction treatment program today.
