Alcoholism is a disease characterized by a chronic physiological dependence on alcohol. The patient has become addicted to the drug and often has no control over the amount of alcohol he consumes. Alcoholics will often not remember how much they drank or how long their last drinking session was. Alcoholics continue drinking even though a variety of problems related to the alcoholism begin to arise.
Liver Damage
When alcohol is ingested, it moves from the small intestine directly into the liver. This organ filters the alcohol and uses it as an energy source. The liver is one of the most common organs adversely affected by alcoholism, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Large amounts of alcohol can cause the liver to produce toxic chemicals that cause damage and inflammation in the organ. This condition is called alcoholic hepatitis. Over time, hepatitis can lead to permanent liver damage, which is called cirrhosis. Approximately 10 to 20 percent of patients who consume more than five drinks a day develop cirrhosis. This condition may prove fatal if not treated properly. Patients who experience pain in the upper left portion of the abdomen when drinking alcohol may have already developed some form of liver damage.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Patients suffering from alcoholism are at high risk for developing problems within the digestive or gastrointestinal tract, reports the New York Times Health Guide. Commonly, patients will suffer from violent vomiting. This vomiting can cause tears in the stomach or esophagus. These tears can cause massive bleeding, which can be deadly. The persistent damage to the stomach and esophagus may also lead to inflammation and ulcers within these organs.
Cardiac Problems
The heart and blood vessels are typically adversely affected by alcohol. Chronic ingestion of excessive amounts of alcohol often lead to a significant increase in blood pressure and drastically increases the patient's risk of developing heart failure, heart attacks or a stroke, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Domestic Violence
Alcoholism has been related to domestic violence, according to the New York Times Health Guide. Households with at least one alcoholic member will become more fragmented and have more conflicts. Alcoholics may physically injure their spouses or children. Children growing up in an alcoholic family suffer from depression, anxiety and esteem issues.
Cognitive Dysfunction
Alcohol and its metabolites are able to penetrate the brain and cause many deficiencies in how the brain operates. Reduced capacity for judgment and a decrease in inhibitions can lead to dangerous behavior, such as criminal or violent actions, according to the Mayo Clinic. Alcohol's effect on the brain leads to a decrease in reflexes, which may lead to vehicular accidents. Cognitive function is depressed, and, therefore, the alcoholic will often develop a history of poor performance at work or in the classroom.
