Alcoholism occurs when drinking becomes habitual and patterned, leading to an inability to maintain daily obligations and the potential engagement of dangerous behaviors. Long-term alcoholism has physiological and psychological consequences causing risks to health and damage to relationships. The dangers associated with alcoholism vary, but it is never too late to seek help for recovery.
Health Dangers
According to the U.S. Department of Health, long-term alcohol use impacts the body in a variety of ways. The most critical health problems include liver disease and digestive disorders. Alcoholism limits the digestive system from converting and transporting essential nutrients to the cells. The blocking of nutrients to the body often leads various organ systems to malfunction and impacts how blood travels to the liver. When the liver does not break down enzymes appropriately, this can lead to toxicity and liver disorders such as hepatitis C or cirrhosis. In the most devastating stages of liver disease death may occur. Additional health dangers of alcoholism include heart disease and stroke.
Cognitive and Emotional Dangers
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome attacks the brain leading to memory loss, hallucinations and confusion. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, alcoholism may contribute to this condition due to causing a nutrient deficiency from the essential vitamin thiamine. Symptoms of this condition may reverse if alcohol use stops and thiamine replacement as well as improved nutrition occurs. However, in the later stages of this syndrome dementia-like symptoms may progress and are irreversible. Depression and suicidal thoughts often accompany long-term alcoholism. This is thought to be impacted by alcohol influencing serotonin levels. Serotonin is an important brain chemical responsible for mood and well-being.
Relationship Conflict
Alcoholism is associated with increased family violence and relationship conflict. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, violence in the home tends to increase due to financial strains and resentments between the alcohol using partner and family members. Alcohol use becomes a priority for the habitual drinker, further isolating him from connecting with loved ones. Loss of important support and relationships is often a potential consequence of continued alcohol use.
