These behaviors include and are not restricted to binge drinking and heavy drinking on a regular basis, drinking and driving, and inappropriate sexual activities as a result of drinking. One rather staggering statistic is that some 53 percent of men and women in the United States report they have at least one close relative that has a drinking problem.

The following will explain alcoholism and alcohol abuse, the symptoms of each, and when and where to seek help.

Alcoholism
For most of us that drink, alcohol can be nothing more than a pleasant accompaniment to our social activities or refreshingly cold ale on a hot day. Up to two drinks (12 oz. of beer, 5 oz, of wine, 1.5 oz. of 80-proof distilled spirits) on a given day for men, and one drink for women and older people, is not of harm to a healthy adult. But nonetheless, many of us still get into serious trouble because of their drinking.

Alcohol abuse and alcoholism bring some very serious consequences, even life threatening consequences. Heavy drinking brings with it the risk of certain cancers, especially those of the liver, esophagus, throat, and larynx (voice box). Heavy drinking also causes liver cirrhosis, immune system problems, brain damage, and harm to the fetus during pregnancy. In addition to the health risk associated with alcohol abuse and alcoholism, it significantly increases the risk of death from automobile crashes, as well as from recreational and on-the-job injuries.

Alcoholism, alcohol abuse, heavy drinking, and other drinking related problems are a cost to society of approximately $185 billion annually… and of course the human cost are incalculable for sure.

Common symptoms of alcoholism are:
• A craving, need, or compulsion to drink.
• Loss of control over the amount drank on any one occasion.
• Tolerance: The need to drink greater amounts of alcohol in order to "get high.
• Physical dependence that comes complete with all the withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety. Symptoms can occur whenever alcohol intake is stopped after a period of heavy drinking.

It is a misconception that a person suffering from alcoholism can stop drinking by using willpower alone. Alcoholism has little to do with willpower because the alcoholic is in the grip of an uncontrollable need for alcohol that simply overrides their ability to stop drinking. This need to drink can be as strong as with any drug of abuse and has been compared to the need for food and water.

There are a number of factors that lend an individual susceptible to alcoholism. Genetics is one of them, but by no means is it the entire picture. In fact, it's believed that certain environmental factors will influence whether a person with a genetic risk for alcoholism ever develops the disease. These factors include and are not limited to where the person lives, how the person lives, family, friends, peer pressure, culture and even the ease of which it is to acquire alcohol.

Alcohol Abuse
Alcohol abuse is different from alcoholism. Unlike alcoholism, alcohol abuse does not include an extremely strong craving for alcohol, loss of control over drinking, or physical dependence. Alcohol abuse can be defined as a particular pattern of drinking that brings about problems that would be unlikely to occur if not for the drinking.

• Drinking in situations that are irresponsible, dangerous, or illegal. Such as while driving a car or operating machinery.
•Not living up to work, school, home, or family responsibilities.
• Experiencing recurring alcohol-related legal problems, such as being arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol or for physically hurting someone while intoxicated.
• Having ongoing relationship problems as a result of drinking and yet refusing to quite.

Ask yourself the following questions as truthfully as you can…
• Have you ever thought you should or have you ever wanted to cut down on your drinking?
• Have friends or loved ones ever annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?
• Has your drinking ever resulted in you experiencing feelings of guilt or other negative feelings?
• Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning (as an "eye opener") to steady your nerves or get rid of a hangover?

If you answered 'yes' to even one of the above questions you may in fact have an alcohol problem. If you answered 'yes' to more than one question, there is a high probability that you have an alcohol problem. Either way, you should consult your physician or other health care provider to discuss your drinking, the effect it is having on your life and relationships, and your feelings about it.
If you answered 'no' to all of the above questions yet still feel as though you have a problem, or if you encounter drinking-related problems with your job, relationships, health, or the law, you should definitely seek professional help. Alcohol abuse is a very serious thing and can lead to all sorts of physical and psychological problems. Alcohol abuse can even be fatal.
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At Midwestdrugrehab.com referral Service we understand the question, "what is alcoholism?" and are here to assist anyone in need of help, to get help. Remember though, the sooner you do get help, the better chance you'll have of making a successful recovery. If you or someone you love suffers from alcohol abuse or alcoholism and is in need of alcohol treatment Please Call Now.
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