A chemical dependency on alcohol is known as "alcoholism". Alcoholism refers to a disease known as alcohol dependence syndrome. This is the most severe stage of a group of drinking problems which begins with binge drinking and alcohol abuse. Alcohol problems occur at different levels of severity, from mild and annoying to life-threatening.

Alcohol abuse becomes alcohol dependence when drinkers begin to experience a craving for alcohol, a loss of control of their drinking, withdrawal symptoms when they are not drinking, and an increased tolerance to alcohol so that they have to drink more to achieve the same effect. Alcohol dependence is a chronic and often progressive disease that includes a strong need to drink despite repeated problems.

Alcohol Detox

The objective of alcohol detox is to help the patient achieve an alcohol free state. Detox is intended to relieve the physical symptoms of withdrawal. Detox helps prepare the patient for entry into treatment and rehab. The time necessary for alcohol detox can be anywhere from 3 to 14 days. Alcohol also affects other body systems. Irritation of the gastrointestinal tract can occur with erosion of the lining of the esophagus and stomach causing nausea and vomiting, and possibly bleeding. Vitamins are not absorbed properly, which can lead to nutritional deficiencies with the long-term use of alcohol.

Alcoholism Withdrawal

Alcohol affects the nervous system and can result in nerve damage and severe memory loss. Chronic alcohol use also increases the risk of cancer of the larynx, esophagus, liver, and colon. Withdrawal develops because the brain has physically adapted to the presence of alcohol and cannot function adequately in the absence of the drug. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms may include a rapid heart rate, restlessness, anxiety, psychosis, depression, loss of appetite, seizures, an elevated temperature, increased blood pressure, hallucinations and even death. Psychological factors may include a need for relief of anxiety, ongoing depression, unresolved conflict within relationships, or low self-esteem. Social factors include availability of alcohol, social acceptance of the use of alcohol, peer pressure, and stressful lifestyles.