Alcohol Dependence

What is the prognosis of Alcohol Dependence or Alcoholism?

About 30% of alcoholics are able to abstain from alcohol permanently without the help of formal treatment or a self-help program. For the rest, the course of the illness is very varied. Some people wi....

What is Alcohol Dependence or Alcoholism?

Alcoholism (alcohol dependence) is the most severe type of drinking problem. There is no absolute number of drinks per day or quantity of alcohol that defines alcoholism. Rather, it is defined by how ....

What are the symptoms of Alcohol Dependence or Alcoholism?

Alcohol dependence can involve any of the following symptoms or behaviors: Having long episodes of intoxication Drinking alone Having work problems or financial problems caused by drinking Losi....

Alcohol Dependence or Alcoholism: When should one seek medical help?

Call your doctor whenever you or someone you love has an alcohol-related problem. Remember, alcoholism is an illness that can be treated, not a sign of weakness or poor character. The sooner treatment....

What is the expected duration of Alcohol Dependence or Alcoholism?

For most people who have alcohol dependence, the first alcohol-related life problem usually appears in the mid-20s to early 40s. Left untreated, alcoholism often persists and gets worse over time. Up ....

What is the diagnosis of Alcohol Dependence or Alcoholism?

Your doctor may use the CAGE questions or some other screening questionnaire that is used to assess drinking problems. One alternative to CAGE is the 10-question AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identific....

What is the treatment of Alcohol Dependence or Alcoholism?

Only a minority of people can regain control of their drinking. More often, once a person has lost control of his or her drinking, it is difficult to go back to drinking moderate amounts. Therefore, t....