What is alcoholism?

Alcohol abuse is a condition in which a person drinks to the point that this habit interferes with his or her life. Alcohol dependence describes a more severe condition marked by physical symptoms and loss of control to the point, that maintaining the addiction to alcohol becomes the main focus of a person’s life. The physical dependence on alcohol is continued despite the knowledge of its harmful consequences.

Physical dependence on alcohol is continued despite the harmful consequences. There is an inability to limit the drinking despite continued efforts. The person drinks more and more alcohol to achieve a particular state of mind (colloq. 'high’). He may also drink more to lessen depressive feelings, which are worse when the person is not under the influence of alcohol. Signs of physical dependence include bodily changes, such as shakes, ‘delirium tremens’ (withdrawal symptoms), or sweats on cessation of drinking.

Alcoholism is a common illness. It is especially serious in older people, since other medical problems are made worse by alcohol.