Alcoholism is often marked by psychological behavior, including denial, evasion and hostile or abusive attitudes toward others. Physical symptoms often develop as well--some directly connected to alcoholism, others caused by related conditions such as poor nutrition. The National Institute of Health and numerous other medical organizations have defined a number of physical signs directly connected to alcoholism.
Increased Tolerance
Alcoholics are able to consume far more liquor than non-alcoholics. This accompanies a need to consume greater amounts of alcohol in order to attain the same euphoric effect.
Cravings
Substance addiction often entails a physical addiction: The body needs alcohol on a level that goes beyond simple willpower and cravings become extremely difficult to resist.
Physical Dependence
An alcoholic's body becomes physically reliant upon the alcohol to function. When and if the alcoholic "dries out," the withdrawal can result in nausea, vomiting and shakiness.
Blackouts
Heavy drinking from an alcoholic can sometimes result in blackouts, in which entire portions of time are "lost" and leave no memory.
Damage
Over time, alcoholism can cause considerable damage to the body's internal organs, most notably the liver, but also the heart, kidneys, digestive system and blood vessels.
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