Effects of alcoholism

Type :

Term papers

Pages :

3 pages

Format :

.doc

Published date :

09/24/2009

Category :

Political science

Sub category :

Social sciences

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Summary :

Introduction
Physical effects
1. The addictive qualities
2. Alcohol's effects on the liver
3. Alcohol's effects on the brain
Psychological effects
1. Chemically induced depressions
2. Changes in thinking
3. Delirium Tremens
Economic effects
1. Work performance
2. Health care and medical results of alcohol abuse
Conclusion
Works cited

Abstract

alcoholism is addiction to alcohol. The National Council on alcoholism and Drug Dependence defines alcoholism as "a chronic disease characterized by impaired control over drinking, preoccupation with the drug alcohol, use of alcohol despite adverse consequences, and distortions in thinking." (JAMA 1992). alcoholism is common in many societies; over 17 million people are estimated to suffer from it in the U.S. (NIH 2008). The disease is notorious because it is widespread, often passes as "socially acceptable" drinking, and brings with it many ill effects for the alcoholic. Alcohol is the cause of many bad effects. The most common ones are physical, psychological, and economic in nature.

Alcohol is a sedative-hypnotic drug that acts on the brain like barbiturates and tranquilizers like Valium. The body can become physically dependent on this chemical, and some people become actually physically addicted to it. This is one reason alcohol can be a hard habit to break. For persons who are addicted to alcohol, suddenly stopping drinking triggers withdrawal symptoms that can include elevated blood pressure, nausea, shaking, possibly even seizures or sudden death. (Behavioral Medicine Associates 2008).