alcohol dependence :10 signs and symptoms causes health risk and how to overcome it

Alcohol dependence, also known as alcoholism, is the most serious form of drinking problem that can lead to serious physical and mental health issues. Commonly referred to as alcohol use disorder, it occurs when a person drinks so much that their body eventually becomes dependent on or addicted to alcohol. Meanwhile, a comprehensive government survey found that an estimated 5.7 crore people in India need treatment for alcohol dependency, TOI reported. The report also showed that there are an estimated 72 lakh individuals who need treatment for cannabis use, 60 lakh for opioids and 11 lakh for sedatives.

The exact cause of alcohol use disorder is still unclear, however, there are certain factors that can increase the risk for developing the disorder, including stressful events such as losing a job or bereavement, having a mental health problem like depression, anxiety, etc. It is claimed that alcohol dependence can also run in families. According to the researchers from the Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation in the US, early onset of intoxication and drinking can result in heavy drinking and alcohol dependence.

Signs and symptoms of alcohol dependence
People with alcohol use disorder may exhibit the following signs:


Making excuses to drink
Waking up and drinking
Eating poorly or not eating
Being unable to control alcohol intake
Having a high tolerance- consuming more to feel the effects of alcohol
Putting alcohol above personal responsibilities
Craving alcohol when not drinking
Withdrawal symptoms (when not drinking) such as sweating, shaking and nausea 
Tremors
Lapses in memory


Alcohol dependence: Health risks, what you can do about it
Limiting or taking regular breaks from alcohol is the best way to prevent and reduce your risk of becoming dependent on alcohol. However, you should seek treatment if you begin to engage in behaviours that are signs of alcohol use disorder.

Alcoholism can seriously damage your liver. It can also lead to a whole range of health complications such as - high blood pressure, nerve damage, heart disease, brain defects, diabetes complications, vision damage, cancer, depression, etc. If you think you may have a problem with alcohol, seeking help sooner rather than later will help you get back on track to living a healthy, fulfilling life