Is Alcoholism a Disease?

Some people believe that alcoholism is a choice. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that a scientific understanding of addiction does not support this perspective. This viewpoint is often shaped by the stigma of addiction and the misconception that addiction is caused by personal flaws or a lack of character. Recognizing addiction as an illness promotes understanding, compassion, and successful treatment methods. In this blog post, let’s discuss what makes alcoholism a disease and why support and access to evidence-based solutions is the path to managing this disease.

Is Alcoholism a Disease?

The historical view of alcoholism as a choice has been shown to be both inaccurate and harmful. Instead, alcoholism has been proven to be a chronic illness affecting the brain and behavior. Alcohol addiction, according to several scientific studies, includes alterations in the brain’s reward and motivation systems, weakening an individual’s capacity to manage their substance use. This type of addiction is influenced by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, environmental effects, and underlying mental health disorders. Alcohol withdrawal on its own can be life-threatening, and a medically-supervised detox program is the recommended first step to quitting drinking and preparing for an outpatient or inpatient treatment program. In the Dallas area, Restored Path Detox provides a resource for adults who need support addressing an alcohol use disorder.

What Is Alcoholism?

Is alcoholism a disease? Alcoholism, commonly known as alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a chronic and persistent disease defined by an obsessive and harmful habit of drinking alcohol regularly. It is a type of addiction or substance use disorder characterized by excessive and uncontrolled alcohol intake regardless of adverse outcomes. As it exists on a spectrum, the severity of the condition can vary from mild to severe.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Alcoholism?

There are a variety of different warning signs for alcoholism. Individuals suffering from alcoholism frequently struggle to limit or manage their drinking. They may have made failed attempts to reduce or quit drinking entirely. A strong urge or appetite for alcohol is a frequent symptom of alcoholism. The desire to drink grows stronger and might be difficult to resist. Individuals suffering from alcoholism may build tolerance over time, requiring larger amounts of alcohol to obtain the desired benefits or prevent withdrawal symptoms. Due to preoccupation with drinking or recuperating from its consequences, alcoholism frequently leads to disregard of obligations at work, school, or home. Alcoholics continue to drink despite harm to their personal relationships, physical health, emotional well-being, or legal and financial areas of their life.

What Risks Come with a Detox at Home?

Alcohol detoxification may be risky, especially if done without medical supervision, especially in situations of severe alcohol dependence or long-term heavy drinking. Without expert support, detoxing from alcohol at home may pose various risks. Alcohol withdrawal can cause a wide range of symptoms, from minor to severe. Seizures, hallucinations, high blood pressure, fast heart rate, and disorientation are all possible withdrawal symptoms in extreme situations. If not treated appropriately by medical personnel, these symptoms might be fatal. Delirium Tremens (DTs) is another severe sign of alcohol withdrawal that is marked by confusion, disorientation, agitation, hallucinations, seizures, and a high heart rate. It is a medical emergency that can be deadly if not treated quickly and effectively. In addition, detox at home can result in dehydration leading to organ function issues, an increased cardiovascular risk, and significant psychological distress. Any combination of these issues can become overwhelming and lead to relapse or cause permanent harm to you.

How Can Restored Path Detox Safely Help?

To guarantee safety, correct management of withdrawal symptoms, and access to appropriate medical interventions if needed, medically supervised alcohol detox in Dallas is strongly advised. Our detox specialists at Restored Path continuously monitor your vital signs, manage symptoms, and give necessary medical treatments to ensure your safety during the process. We can offer medications and other supporting measures to ease the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal and make the detoxification procedure more comfortable. We address the emotional and psychological components of addiction and assist you in developing coping techniques through counseling, therapy, and support groups. Furthermore, Restored Path tailors alcohol detox to your unique needs and can assist you in transitioning to the next stage of treatment to help you begin a long-term recovery.

Restored Path Detox is DFW’s premier location for sophisticated medical detox. Conveniently located in Frisco, we provide a safe sanctuary for healing that is also a state-of-the-art detoxification facility for a wide range of substances. Our compassionate physicians and therapists want you to get well and are committed to removing any existing barriers to your care. Restored Path’s board-certified medical professionals and highly qualified RNs have extensive critical care experience and are available to monitor your detox program 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you or a loved one are struggling with drug or alcohol use, contact us today and take your first step towards recovery: 469-827-0000.