Alcoholism is considered a disease in which the body craves alcohol psychologically and physically. Most people will deny they have a drinking problem or suffer from alcoholism. Obsession with drinking alcohol and the inability to stop drinking impede relationships with significant others and friends, causes health problems, and can cause difficulties at work and with financial obligations. Alcoholism is treatable with help from medications, support groups and outpatient or inpatient therapy.
Blacking Out
The inability to remember conversations or events that took place under the influence of heavy alcohol consumption is a classic symptom of alcoholism. These blackouts can occur often if the alcoholic is consuming large amounts of alcohol. The alcohol level that affects his body is different depending on body weight and chemistry. For example, in some states the percentage of alcohol in the bloodstream cannot exceed 0.08 percent without the subject being legally impaired. Usually, a person having blackouts is consuming at least twice that amount of alcohol on a daily basis.
Drinking in Secret
Drinking alone and non-socially is another classic sign of alcoholism, the Mayo Clinic reports. Many people who consume large amounts of alcohol on a daily basis drink alone. It is much easier and less embarrassing to drink excessively when drinking alone. An alcoholic may do this, for example, to keep from hearing any genuine concern from other people about her problem.
Hiding Alcohol
Long-term alcoholics may hide their bottles, the Cleveland Clinic reports, in such places as under the bed, in the closet or under the bathroom sink. Alcohol may be hidden within the trunk of a car under a blanket. Whereever the hiding places may be, the alcoholic knows that he can sneak drinks without anyone knowing who might stop him or berate him.
Inability to Stop
The inability to stop drinking alcohol means that the person drinks to the point of alcohol intoxication, or inebriation. It is difficult for person who is addicted to alcohol to stop drinking to excess without intervention.
Irritability
The alcoholic may get noticeably irritable, especially when the she wants to drink and it is getting near to the time when she usually drinks. Irritability occurs when alcohol is not available or even when there may be a chance that alcohol is within reach. Unless she has the alcohol to drink, the irritability continues and may cause other negative behaviors.
