Transcript alcoholism.
ALCOHOLISM • Chronic disease that makes your body dependent on alcohol. • Unable to control how much you drink !! • Causing problems with relationships, health, work and finances. • Alcohol abuse: you have a problem, but do not display all the characteristics of alcoholism. You have not lost control and are not dependent • Alcoholism is treatable: medications, counseling, self-help groups can help. Better Health. No Hassles. SYMPTOMS • Drinking alone or in secret • Unable to limit amount • Not remembering conversations “blacking out” • Losing interest in activities and hobbies • Feeling a need or compulsion to drink • Gulping drinks, ordering double’s, becoming intoxicated intentionally to feel good !! • Legal problems, employment problems, finances, relationships • Building tolerance • Withdrawal nausea, sweating and shaking Better Health. No Hassles. ARE YOU ABUSING OR DEPENDENT? • Do you need a drink as soon as you get up? Eye-opener. • Do you feel guilty about your drinking? • Do you think that you need to cut back? • Are you annoyed when your drinking habits are criticized? • If yes to 2 or more, likely you have a problem. If 1 yes may indicate a problem. Better Health. No Hassles. CAUSES • Drinking alters chemical balance in your brain. • Raises levels of dopamine, which is associated with the pleasurable effects • Excessive, long-term drinking can deplete or increase levels of these chemicals, causing alcohol craving to restore good feelings or to avoid negative feelings. • Genetics • Emotional state • Psychological factors. Depression low self esteem • Social and cultural factors.”It’s cool to drink” Better Health. No Hassles. RISK FACTORS • Men >15 drinks a week • Women >12 increases risk of dependence. • Age: earlier age increases risk. • Genetics • Sex: men at higher risk • Family history • Emotional disorders: anxiety/depression Better Health. No Hassles. COMPLICATIONS • Liver disorders • Gastrointestinal problems • Heart problems:heart muscle damage • Diabetes • Sexual problems • Birth defects • Bone loss • Neurologic problems • Cancer risk!!!! Better Health. No Hassles. TREATMENTS. • Treatment programs • Detoxification and withdrawal duration 4-7 days taking sedating medications to prevent withdrawal symptoms • Medical assessment and treatment. Related problems are high blood pressure, increase blood sugar, liver and heart disease • Psychological support and psychiatric treatment. Group and individual counseling • Emphasis on acceptance and abstinence Better Health. No Hassles. DRUG TREATMENT • Antabuse: If you drink you get nauseated, vomit and get headaches. • Naltrexone: Blocks the high, reduces urge. • Campral: Anti-craving. Better Health. No Hassles. PREVENTION • Knowing family history • Early intervention especially in teenagers. Teens who drink are engaging in risky behavior • Teenager signs: no interest in activities or hobbies. Blood shot eyes, slurred speech and memory lapses. Difficulties in relationships joining a new crowd. Poor grades. Mood swings • Parents need to set good example. Better Health. No Hassles. COPING AND SUPPORT • ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS 12 STEPS • AL-ANON • MADD Better Health. No Hassles.