Alcoholism is a disease. It is one that some are more prone to than others. Although drinking in moderation on occasion does not pose a problem, drinking in excess to the point where it destroys your life is problematic. Just as with any other disease, treatment is available for alcoholism. However the signs must first be recognized by the alcoholic or his family before healing can begin.
Increased Tolerance
One of the first major signs of alcoholism is an increased tolerance to this substance. This means that the person requires more alcohol to obtain the same effect that smaller amounts of alcohol used to provide.
Losing Control
This is the inability to stop drinking, even if the person realizes she has had enough. An alcoholic's body is so dependent on this substance that she needs to continue drinking just to satisfy the cravings that have taken over her sense of what is good or bad for her.
Personal Hygiene
As time goes on, personal hygiene and grooming are last on an alcoholic's list of priorities. Rather than caring about showering or changing your clothes, all the addict can think about taking another drink. This results in a disheveled appearance or an odor that others may begin to notice, including a constant smell of alcohol.
Hiding Alcohol
Because of the person's need for alcohol, he may begin hiding alcohol at home, in his vehicle or at work. This allows him to have a constant supply readily available, regardless of where he is. This can lead to unexplained disappearances, especially at the workplace. The person may take frequent bathroom breaks to relieve his cravings.
Legal Problems
Alcoholism can cause a great deal of problems in a person's life, many of which may be legal problems, according to HelpGuide. These problems can include being pulled over while driving under the influence, resulting in a DWI. Or an alcoholic may out one evening, become belligerent and find himself arrested for disorderly conduct.
Suffering Withdrawal Symptoms
Alcoholic most certainly suffer from withdrawal symptoms when they do not have their drink of choice readily available. These feelings of withdrawal can cause the person to drink first thing in the morning just so she can begin her day. Other symptoms, according to HelpGuide, include feeling anxious, trembling, nausea, fatigue, irritability and loss of appetite.
