subject: Impairments Caused By Excessive Alcohol Consumption [print this page] Alcohol addiction is a chronic, progressive disorder described as a person's compulsion to absorb alcohol. It affects many individuals all around the world - from young to old generations. It is not restricted within a family, a society or an ethnic background. There are no everlasting treatments available for alcoholism but therapies can be given to individuals who are struggling with this problem. If not given prompt treatment and medical assistance, alcohol addiction may lead to various health risks that may bring about short-term or irreversible impairment. The most common problem that an individual with alcoholism will suffer is liver problem.
Liver cirrhosis is a result of chronic heavy drinking episodes where the liver cells turn out to be fibrotic and scarred. The liver performs vital metabolic processes and damage to it will greatly impact an individual's health condition. The earliest sign that can be observed among individuals with liver problems is a yellowish hue of the skin or otherwise known as jaundice. This discoloration of the skin is brought about by greater deposition of bilirubin in the blood. Other symptoms include easy fatigability, loss of appetite and even bruising due to decreased clotting factors. Before the drinking problem worsens, it is best to seek help from an alcohol treatment center.
Another health issue that an alcoholic may acquire is cancer. Alcohol dependents can be predisposed to developing several types of cancer particularly liver cancer. Other associated cancers due to prolonged alcohol consumption are cancers of the larynx, breast and even the colon.
Alcohol-related injuries such as domestic violence, motor accidents, date rapes and sexual harassment are now becoming rampant issues in the the world. These individuals are discovered to be under the influence of alcohol. A variety of cases have been documented daily among the authorities.
Erectile dysfunction is also a prevalent problem among male alcohol dependents. Alcohol is a well-known depressant of the nervous system. This affects the nerve conduction pathways which play a critical role in the transmission of impulses.
Lastly, the consequent drinking of alcohol could cause brain dysfunction. Cognitive disorders including dementia may be a result of chronic alcoholism. The brain tissue may shrink which will reveal neurologic impairments which could either be temporary or permanent. These types of cases are seen among alcohol-related dementias. Sometimes, if the neurological problems become irreversible, even alcohol treatment center facilities are unable to find a solution for the situation.
Management of alcoholism is aimed at the decrease in the consumption of alcohol among men and women. Apart from handling the withdrawal symptoms, joining self-help groups are also advisable to provide psychosocial support. Behavioral modification is also a way to interfere with the harmful addiction that the person has already developed. It is especially beneficial if the person is also self-motivated towards becoming symptom-free.
