Physiological addiction to alcohol characterizes the presence of alcohol dependence. Symptoms relating to severe alcoholism are often termed interchangeably as physiological or physical, which indicates a change in the response of the body to the substance as well as the outward physical signs of alcohol use. Indicators of severity of the condition are often brought to light in the event of withdrawal from alcohol for a period of time exceeding five hours after the last drink, according to MedlinePlus.
Tolerance Increase
The term tolerance is used as diagnostic criteria for determining the presence of alcoholism. The International Center for Alcohol Policies details tolerance as increased use of alcohol to produce the desired effect of intoxication. Tolerance occurs on an individual basis. For instance, drinking four alcohol beverages in the beginning of alcohol use may give a euphoric feeling, however, with frequent drinking the amount of beverages needed for the same affect doubles or triples over time.
Frequent Intoxication
The American Academy of Family Physicians notes that recurrent intoxication is an indicator of alcoholism. This comes in the form of an inability to limit the amount of drinks consumed, drinking in secret or a persistent compulsion to drink when triggered by any known or unknown cues. MayoClinic.com also notes that making designated times to drink or having drinking rituals is common in severe alcoholism.
Health Problems
Chronic and severe alcoholics have a high likelihood of developing health conditions such as liver disorders, digestive problems and heart conditions. The MayoClinic.com notes that complications with health from alcoholism occur due to poor self-care habits as well as the actual damage the alcohol causes on the body. Alcoholism interferes in the digestive process by preventing nutrients from properly absorbing to facilitate metabolism and waste of toxins. Alcoholism increases blood pressure precluding heart disease and inflammation of the liver is a significant risk from years of drinking.
Heightened Side Effects
Severe alcoholics have a high risk of blackouts during drinking episodes, coordination disturbance and episodes of memory impairment. National Treatment Referral also notes that some instances of intoxication include experiencing numbness in the extremities and abdominal pain. Irritability, mood swings and depression can occur during intoxication with alcohol.
Withdrawal Symptoms
According to MedlinePlus, symptoms of withdrawal can range from mild to severe depending on the person. Severe withdrawal symptoms take the form of vomiting, seizures and delirium tremens, which refers to severe confusion with hallucinations. Additional physiological factors of withdrawal include sweating, hand tremors and rapid heart rate. Withdrawal from alcohol often requires medically supervised detox.
