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Alcohol use disorder

Also called: alcohol dependence, alcoholism, alcohol addiction
A chronic disease characterized by uncontrolled drinking and preoccupation with alcohol.
  • Treatment can help, but this condition can't be cured
  • Usually self-diagnosable
  • Lab tests or imaging not required
  • Chronic: can last for years or be lifelong
Alcoholism is the inability to control drinking due to both a physical and emotional dependence on alcohol.
Symptoms include a strong need or urge to use alcohol. Those with alcohol use disorder may have problems controlling their drinking, continue to use alcohol even when it causes problems, or have withdrawal symptoms when they rapidly decrease or stop drinking.
Treatment involves counseling, such as behavioral therapy, and medications that reduce the desire to drink. Some people need medical detoxification to stop drinking safely. Mutual support groups help people stop drinking, manage relapses and cope with necessary lifestyle changes.
Very common: More than 3 million US cases per year
Consult a doctor for medical advice Sources: Mayo Clinic and others. Learn more
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May 18, 2022 · Unhealthy alcohol use ranges from mild to severe, including alcoholism and binge drinking, putting health and safety at risk.
It encompasses the conditions that some people refer to as alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence, alcohol addiction, and the colloquial term, alcoholism.
Alcoholism is the continued drinking of alcohol despite it causing problems. Some definitions require evidence of dependence and withdrawal.
Jan 24, 2024 · An alcohol use disorder (AUD) is drinking that causes distress and harm. AUD can range from mild to severe (alcoholism).
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NIAAA supports and conducts research on the impact of alcohol use on human health and well-being.
Excessive alcohol use can lead to increased risk of health problems such as injuries, violence, liver diseases, and cancer.The CDC Alcohol Program works to ...
Jun 9, 2023 · SAMHSA's National Helpline is a free, confidential, 24/7, 365-day-a-year treatment referral and information service (in English and Spanish) ...
Alcoholism, now called alcohol use disorder (AUD), refers to an addiction to alcohol. A person with this condition can no longer control their consumption ...