Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Use Disorder

What Is Alcohol Addiction?

Alcohol addiction, also called alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a chronic disease characterized by the inability to control or stop drinking despite negative consequences and a strong internal drive to keep drinking. It is a medical and psychological condition that affects people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. Like other chronic diseases, alcohol addiction is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, mental health and the frequency or quantity of alcohol consumption.

Alcohol works by depressing the central nervous system (CNS). With repeated and excessive use, the brain adapts to these depressive effects, requiring more alcohol to achieve the same results. Over time, this pattern of tolerance and dependence can lead to permanent changes in the brain. As these changes become more pronounced, a person may find that their life revolves around obtaining and consuming alcohol to ward off withdrawal symptoms or to function normally.

Signs and Symptoms of an Alcohol Use Disorder

An alcohol use disorder, also referred to as AUD, manifests differently for each individual. Some people may exhibit clear signs of addiction, while others develop subtler patterns that can be harder to detect. As with many chronic conditions, AUD often progresses in stages — from occasional misuse and increased tolerance to physical dependence and full-blown addiction.

The criteria for diagnosing an alcohol use disorder are outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Clinicians use these criteria to determine the severity of an alcohol use disorder. These criteria include, but are not limited to:

• Drinking more or for a longer period than intended
• Wanting to cut down or stop drinking but finding it difficult to do so
• Spending significant time obtaining, using or recovering from alcohol use
• Experiencing strong cravings or urges to drink
• Failing to fulfill obligations at work, school or home due to alcohol use
• Continuing to drink despite persistent or recurring social or interpersonal problems made worse by alcohol
• Giving up or reducing important social, occupational or recreational activities because of alcohol use
• Using alcohol in dangerous situations (e.g., driving)
• Continuing to drink despite physical or psychological problems likely caused or worsened by alcohol
• Developing a tolerance and needing more alcohol to feel the same effects
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not drinking

The more of these criteria a person meets, the more severe the disorder is considered. Recognizing these patterns early is vital for seeking help and treatment.

Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Misuse

For many people, the progression from “occasional drinking” to “problem drinking” can happen subtly. An individual might begin by having a few extra drinks at social gatherings or using alcohol to cope with stress. Before long, their drinking habits may start interfering with daily responsibilities, relationships and physical or mental health.

Learning to recognize early warning signs is critical to preventing the problem from escalating. Whether you are concerned about your own alcohol consumption or that of a loved one, spotting the physical and behavioral indicators of alcohol misuse can help you determine whether it’s time to seek help.

Physical Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Misuse

Physical symptoms of alcohol misuse can vary greatly from person to person, depending on factors like the amount of alcohol consumed, body composition and overall health. However, common physical signs often include:

• Increased Tolerance: Over time, someone who regularly misuses alcohol will need larger amounts of alcohol to feel the same effects they used to achieve with fewer drinks. This is the body’s adaptation to repeated alcohol exposure.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: When someone who is physically dependent on alcohol stops or significantly reduces their drinking, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. These can include anxiety, shakiness, sweating, nausea, headaches and, in severe cases, seizures or delirium tremens (DTs). Withdrawal symptoms can begin as soon as a few hours after the last drink.
• Neglected Appearance and Hygiene: As alcohol use takes on a higher priority, personal grooming and hygiene may suffer. A person may appear disheveled, have poor dental health or neglect basic hygiene tasks.
• Changes in Weight and Eating Habits: Alcohol contains calories, but they are “empty” calories without nutritional value. Heavy drinking can lead to weight gain or nutritional deficiencies. Alternatively, some people may skip meals to “save room” for alcohol or because heavy alcohol use suppresses their appetite.
• Sleep Disruption: Although drinking alcohol can make people feel drowsy, excessive drinking can disturb the normal sleep cycle and lead to insomnia or disrupted sleep. Those who drink heavily may feel fatigued during the day and have low energy overall.
• Blackouts and Memory Loss: Drinking heavily in a short period can lead to blackouts, where a person remains conscious but cannot recall events. Frequent blackouts can be a serious sign of an alcohol problem.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Chronic alcohol misuse can cause stomach pain, ulcers and other digestive problems. It can also cause inflammation of the liver (alcoholic hepatitis), which can escalate to cirrhosis over time.
• Cardiovascular Problems: Long-term alcohol misuse can lead to high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat and an increased risk of heart problems. If left unaddressed, this can lead to an elevated risk of heart attack or stroke.
• Frequent Illness: Heavy alcohol consumption weakens the immune system, making people more susceptible to illnesses like colds, flu and other infections. Over time, this can make it more difficult for the body to fight off disease.

Behavioral Signs and Symptoms of Alcohol Misuse

While physical symptoms often highlight the damage alcohol does to the body, behavioral signs can reveal how alcohol is affecting a person’s emotional well-being and lifestyle. Key behavioral indicators can include:

• Loss of Control Over Drinking: This can manifest as drinking more alcohol than intended or being unable to adhere to self-imposed limits. A person may pledge not to drink during the workweek but find themselves regularly breaking that promise.
• Cravings and Preoccupation: Persistent cravings and constant thoughts about alcohol can indicate escalating misuse. This might include obsessively planning the next time or place to drink or feeling anxious if alcohol is not available.
• Secretive or Isolating Behavior: People struggling with alcohol misuse often hide their drinking or lie about it. They might drink alone or avoid social activities that do not involve alcohol. In some cases, they may become defensive or angry when questioned about their drinking habits.
• Neglecting Obligations: Alcohol misuse can lead to declining performance at work or school and missing important events. Over time, an individual may show a pattern of lateness, absenteeism or unfinished tasks.
• Social and Interpersonal Problems: Arguing with family or friends, losing contact with close circles and alienating oneself from supportive relationships are common indicators that alcohol is negatively affecting a person’s social life.
• Dangerous Behavior: Driving under the influence (DUI) or mixing alcohol with prescription medication are examples of reckless behaviors. Someone misusing alcohol may also engage in binge drinking sessions, significantly increasing their risk of alcohol poisoning.
• Using Alcohol to Cope: Relying on alcohol to manage stress, anxiety, depression or difficult life events can spiral into a cycle of dependence. Over time, drinking to cope with negative emotions only worsens the underlying issues and fosters addiction.
• Financial Difficulties: Spending a significant portion of income on alcohol, borrowing money to buy alcohol or neglecting bills in favor of drinking can be strong indicators of escalating misuse.
• Legal Problems: Whether it’s a DUI charge, public intoxication citations or arrests for disorderly conduct, repeated legal troubles related to alcohol are a red flag that it is controlling an individual’s life.

If you notice any of these physical or behavioral signs — in yourself or someone else — it may be time to seek professional help. Recognizing the early signs can prevent a minor issue from evolving into a severe alcohol use disorder.

Treatment for Alcohol Misuse or Addiction

Seeking treatment for alcohol misuse or addiction is a courageous and life-changing step. It can be challenging to acknowledge a problem exists and even more difficult to reach out for help. However, an effective treatment plan can provide hope, healing and a pathway to long-term recovery. The first step is often speaking with a healthcare provider or addiction specialist who can assess the severity of the problem and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.

Detoxification

For individuals who are physically dependent on alcohol, a medical detox is often the initial stage of treatment. This process helps them safely withdraw from alcohol in a supervised environment, minimizing discomfort and reducing the risks of severe withdrawal symptoms like seizures or delirium tremens (DTs). Medical professionals may administer medications to stabilize the person and ease withdrawal.

Inpatient or Residential Treatment

Inpatient rehabilitation provides a structured, supportive environment where someone can focus entirely on their recovery without the triggers of everyday life. These programs typically include individual therapy, group counseling, educational sessions about addiction and relapse prevention strategies. People in inpatient programs also benefit from 24/7 medical oversight, ensuring any complications are promptly addressed.

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient programs can be suitable for individuals who have milder AUD or have already completed a more intensive level of care. Outpatient treatment offers flexibility, allowing people to live at home and continue attending to responsibilities like work or school while receiving professional counseling and support. Intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) often meet multiple times per week and may be an option for those needing more structure than standard outpatient care but less than residential care.

Therapeutic Approaches

A variety of evidence-based therapies can help individuals understand the root causes of their alcohol use disorder and develop coping strategies. Examples include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps people identify negative thought patterns that lead to harmful behaviors. By challenging these thoughts, individuals learn more productive ways to cope with stress and triggers.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT includes skill-building techniques in mindfulness, emotion regulation, distress tolerance and interpersonal effectiveness.
• Motivational Interviewing (MI): MI aims to enhance an individual’s motivation and commitment to change by exploring the ambivalence often associated with quitting or reducing alcohol use.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Certain medications, like naltrexone, acamprosate and disulfiram, can support the recovery process by reducing cravings, stabilizing mood and discouraging drinking. MAT is not a standalone treatment but is often integrated with therapy and counseling for a comprehensive approach.

Support Groups and Aftercare

Recovery is an ongoing process that extends well beyond initial treatment. Support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), SMART Recovery or other 12-step and non-12-step programs provide peer support, accountability and encouragement. Aftercare plans might include regular therapy sessions, sober living arrangements, alumni programs and continued involvement in support groups.

Dual Diagnosis Treatment

Many individuals who struggle with alcohol misuse also have co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Dual diagnosis treatment involves addressing both the addiction and the mental health disorder simultaneously to improve the chances of successful long-term recovery.

Lifestyle Changes and Ongoing Support

Sustainable recovery involves making healthier choices in all areas of life, including nutrition, exercise, sleep hygiene and stress management. Cultivating a strong support system of friends, family and sober peers can help foster resilience and reduce the likelihood of relapse.

Seeking Help at The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper

The Recovery Village Cherry Hill at Cooper provides a full continuum of care, from medical detox and inpatient rehab to aftercare. We are here to help you and those you love recover from addiction and begin a healthier, alcohol-free future. Contact us to learn more about alcohol addiction treatment programs that can work well for your needs in recovery.