Alcoholism Manifests in One of These 7 Physical Signs and Symptoms

In the early stages, an alcohol addiction might not be obvious. It may be weeks or even months before someone realises that their loved one is struggling from issues with alcohol. Typically, the signs are still there; although, they may be subtle at first.

Here are some of the indications that someone may be dealing with alcoholism:

1. Changes in Weight

Depending on the length and extent of the alcohol addiction, along with genetics, one with a current addiction may suddenly gain or lose quite a bit of weight. The weight change may be pretty sudden and unexpected. Someone with addiction may even have fluctuating weight, especially if they go periods of time without drinking before beginning again.

2. Frequent Headaches

Alcohol causes dehydration, and one of the most common side effects of dehydration is headaches. Even if one rehydrates quickly after drinking, sometimes the headaches take some time to go away as they can be pretty gnarly.

3. Dehydrated Skin

Again, alcohol dehydrates the body, so duller, drier skin than usual is often a result of suffering from alcoholism. Some folks may even experience flare-ups of current skin conditions such as eczema due to excessive drinking so using an eczema cream can help to alleviate the symptoms. Wrinkling of the skin may be another sign of alcoholism in some individuals as alcohol affects how one absorbs vitamins and minerals.

4. Nausea and Vomiting

Alcohol isn’t kind on the gut. As it irritates the lining of the stomach, stomach aches, bubble gut, acid reflux, and nausea (which often results in vomiting) can arise. Not only are these symptoms clearly uncomfortable, but they can also be inconvenient. Thus, one may frequently skip school or call into work.

5. Personality Changes

As much as one might want to believe that alcohol doesn’t change their personality, it can. Some people become more aggressive and angry when in active addiction. Others may experience mood swings, anxiety, depression, loss of interest, or changes in social behaviour. Personality changes are even more obvious in the case of dual diagnosis.

6. Isolation

Many people with alcoholism are ashamed by their addiction or intentionally keep their addiction a secret from certain loved ones. So, social isolation or frequent canceling of plans isn’t completely uncommon. Instead, they may choose to be alone or only hang out with people who are also alcoholics.

7. Financial Struggles

Let’s face it, having alcoholism isn’t free, and it sure isn’t cheap either. What is more, costs add up quickly, especially in this inflated economy. Even if one buys the cheapest alcohol at the store instead of buying fancy drinks at a local bar, addiction requires regular spending. This spending is often extra money that people simply don’t have or could put better use to.

Alcoholism can lead to other financial issues too. This may include gambling while intoxicated, multiple doctor visits due to alcohol-related health problems, or frequently replacing items (e.g., phone, window) due to breaking them while drunk. Then, of course, the more the addiction progresses, the more alcohol is generally needed to maintain that addiction. More money spent.

Conclusion

The signs and symptoms of alcoholism can range from discrete to obvious. The beginning stages of alcoholism may be so subtle at first that it goes completely unnoticed by outsiders. In the end, an alcohol problem will eventually reveal itself and catch up to the user. The sooner one receives help for this detrimental condition, the better.