What are the physical and mental symptoms of female alcoholism?

From what you have learned about addiction, how can alcoholism be diagnosed? What symptoms would appear first?

• Answer:

  Alcoholism: Signs And Symptoms Alcoholism includes four symptoms, craving (a strong need, or compulsion, to drink), loss of control (the inability to limit one's drinking on any given occasion), physical dependence (withdrawal symptoms, such as nausea, sweating, shakiness, and anxiety, occur when alcohol use is stopped after a period of heavy drinking), and tolerance (the need to drink greater amounts of alcohol in order to "get high"). Other indications of alcoholism and alcohol abuse include feelings of guilt toward drinking, drinking alone or in secret, being unable to limit the amount of alcohol one drinks, blacking out or not remembering conversations or commitments, making a ritual of having drinks at various times such as before, with, or after dinner, losing interest in activities and hobbies that used to bring pleasure, and feeling a need or compulsion to drink. Other symptoms include irritability when the usual drinking time nears, especially if alcohol is not available, keeping alcohol in "hiding" places with quick accessibility (at home, at work, or in the car), gulping drinks, ordering doubles, becoming intoxicated intentionally to feel good or drinking to feel "normal," the need to drink upon arising in the morning, having legal problems or problems with relationships, employment, or finances, building a tolerance to alcohol so that an increasing amount of alcohol is needed to feel the same effects, and experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms, including nausea, sweating, and shaking, when no drink is available. The development of alcoholism or alcohol dependence can occur over a lengthy period of time ranging from five to 20 years. Initially, the alcoholic displays a tolerance for alcohol meaning it is necessary for the drinker to consume larger amounts of alcohol, as the usual amount ingested no longer produces the desired effect. With the increased dosages of alcohol, the likelihood is greater that complications will occur. Unfortunately, the alcoholic may not be aware of the effect that alcohol is having on the body. Read more: http://www.righthealth.com/topic/Alcoholism_Diagnosis#ixzz1YDH6VnZL